India and France have successfully concluded negotiations for the Indian Navy’s acquisition of 26 Rafale M fighter jets, valued at $7.6 billion. This contract, expected to be signed in April 2025 during the visit of France’s defense chief to India, aims to replace the Indian Navy’s aging Russian-made MiG-29K and MiG-29KUB multirole carriers currently deployed in INAS 300 and INAS 303 squadrons. The proposed purchase includes 22 Rafale M jets and four dual-seat Rafale B versions, with pilot training planned in France and at a facility in Goa using advanced simulators. Dassault Aviation is considering local assembly of the aircraft in India to meet Indian requirements and to facilitate quicker project implementation and maintenance training for personnel, aligning with India’s “Make in India” initiative. This acquisition follows India’s earlier purchase of 36 Rafale jets for the Air Force, signifying a broader military modernization effort. The strategic implications of this deal underscore India’s commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities and bolstering defense partnerships with France.
