India Signs $7.4 Billion Deal with France for 26 Rafale Marine Jets to Boost Naval Strength

In a major move to strengthen its naval power, India has signed a $7.4 billion (₹63,000 crore) agreement with France to buy 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets. The contract was officially signed after an Inter-Governmental Agreement between the two countries and was witnessed by the Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, Éric Trappier.

This historic deal includes 22 single-seater and four twin-seater Rafale Marine jets, manufactured by Dassault Aviation. For the first time ever, the Rafale Marine will be operated by a navy outside of France, marking a major milestone for both India and Dassault Aviation.

According to the Indian defence ministry, all the aircraft will be delivered by 2030. Indian Navy crews will receive training in both France and India to prepare for operating the new jets. This purchase is also expected to create thousands of new jobs and boost business across India’s defence sector.

The deal had earlier received approval from India's security cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Currently, the Indian Air Force already operates 36 Rafale fighter jets, while the Navy primarily uses older Russian-made MiG-29 aircraft. The arrival of the Rafale Marine will modernise the Navy’s capabilities significantly.

The selection of the Rafale Marine, announced in July 2023 after thorough evaluation, reflects India’s trust in the fighter’s advanced technology. Dassault Aviation highlighted that this deal strengthens the deep strategic ties between India and France and proves the Rafale’s importance in securing a nation’s sovereignty.

The Indian Navy will now benefit from the vast operational experience of the French Navy, which already flies the Rafale Marine from its aircraft carrier. With this addition, along with the 36 Rafale jets already flying with the Air Force, India will further boost its ability to protect its interests and maintain a strong global presence.

This agreement continues a long history between India and Dassault Aviation that goes back 70 years to the induction of the Toofany fighter aircraft. Dassault Aviation also emphasized its commitment to supporting India's 'Make in India' and 'Skill India' initiatives by further investing in the country’s defence ecosystem.

Éric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, expressed his gratitude to the Indian government for their continued trust and said the company is determined to support India’s strategic ambitions for the future.

The Indian Navy’s decision to strengthen its fleet comes at a time of rising concerns over China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean. China’s military base in Djibouti and the presence of Chinese vessels in the region have been closely watched by Indian defence planners. With the new Rafale Marine jets, India aims to modernise its forces, reduce dependence on Russian equipment, and support its goal of building a strong, self-reliant defence industry.