India Signs $7.4 Billion Deal with France for 26 Rafale Aircraft
India signed a deal worth approximately $7.4 billion with France on Monday for the procurement of 26 Rafale aircraft for the Indian Navy. The deal, formalized under an “intergovernmental agreement,” was announced by India’s Ministry of Defense and also includes additional equipment for the Indian Air Force’s existing Rafale fleet.
The agreement, signed in New Delhi, includes the transfer of technology for integrating indigenous weapons into the Rafale aircraft and the establishment of a production facility in India for Rafale fuselages. The Rafale-Marine, a carrier-borne, combat-ready aircraft manufactured by France’s Dassault Aviation, has proven operational capabilities in maritime environments. The delivery of these aircraft will be completed by 2030, with training for crew members taking place in both France and India.
The Defense Ministry emphasized that the Rafale-Marine shares commonality with the Rafale jets currently used by the Indian Air Force. This procurement will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of both the Indian Navy and the Air Force, optimizing training and logistics. The new aircraft will serve as a potent force multiplier for the Indian Navy’s aircraft carriers, greatly strengthening the country’s air power at sea.
In a related context, India signed a previous deal with France in September 2016 to purchase 36 Rafale jets for $8.8 billion. All 36 aircraft have already been delivered.
