The Navy will acquire 26 Rafale Marine jets to deploy on INS Vikrant, enhancing India’s surveillance and strike capabilities in the Indian Ocean amid rising tensions with China.
April 9, 2025: New Delhi:
India is set to sign a high-profile government-to-government deal with France for 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets, sources confirmed on Tuesday. Valued at over ₹63,000 crore, the agreement aims to strengthen India’s naval aviation capabilities, particularly in light of growing security concerns in the Indian Ocean region.
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According to defence sources, the formal signing is expected later this month during the visit of French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu to India. The procurement includes 22 single-seater and four twin-seater Rafale Marine aircraft, which will be deployed on India’s first indigenously-built aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant.
This acquisition marks a strategic leap for the Indian Navy, providing it with advanced carrier-based fighter jets tailored for maritime operations. It also comes at a time when India’s military is actively recalibrating its strategy to deter any aggression or encroachment in its sphere of influence.
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Speaking recently, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi emphasized the Navy’s preparedness: “We are tweaking our strategy to negate any infringement in our operational areas. The Navy is ready to tackle threats from all neighbours.”
The deal also underscores the deepening defence ties between India and France, following the earlier acquisition of 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force.
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Rafale Marine deal, India France defence deal, INS Vikrant, Indian Navy, Rafale jets for Navy, Indian Ocean strategy, maritime security, Rafale aircraft, Indian defence news, China India naval tensions