Overview

• The ₹63,000-crore deal, approved by India's Cabinet Committee on Security on April 9, includes 22 single-seat Rafale-M fighters and four two-seat trainer variants.
• Deliveries are set to begin in 2028, with full induction expected by 2031, boosting the Indian Navy's operational capabilities.
• The Rafale-M jets will replace the aging MiG-29K fleet and operate from aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.
• The comprehensive package encompasses weapons, simulators, maintenance infrastructure, and crew training, with provisions for local integration of systems.
• The agreement underscores deepening defense ties between India and France, following successful trials where Rafale-M outperformed Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.