India and France Forge Strategic Partnership: 26 Rafale Marine Aircraft Secured for Indian Navy

Bharat has taken a significant step in boosting its maritime defense. India and France recently signed an agreement to acquire 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets for the Indian Navy. This deal includes 22 single-seater and four twin-seater jets, along with comprehensive training, simulators, and logistical support.

The deal was formalized by India’s Defense Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh, and French Armed Forces Minister, Mr. Sebastien Lecornu, during a ceremony in New Delhi. Senior officials, including Defense Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, were also present as they exchanged signed copies of the agreement.

A key focus of this agreement is self-reliance, aligning with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. An important aspect is the transfer of technology aimed at integrating indigenous weapon systems into the aircraft.

To further this goal, a new production facility for Rafale fuselages and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) centers for engines and weapon systems will be established in India. This initiative is expected to create thousands of jobs and open new opportunities for small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country.

The Rafale-Marine, manufactured by Dassault Aviation, is designed for naval operations. Delivery of the jets is planned to be completed by 2030. Indian Navy and Air Force personnel will undergo extensive training in both France and India to ensure smooth operations.

Moreover, the Rafale-Marine shares many characteristics with the Rafales already in service with the Indian Air Force. This similarity will simplify training and maintenance, enhancing operational readiness. The new jets will greatly enhance the Indian Navy’s carrier strike capabilities, adding a powerful asset to India’s maritime strength.

According to a recent report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, defense cooperation between India and France has steadily increased, showing the importance both nations place on strengthening their military ties.

As India deepens its defense relationship with France, this agreement marks a robust move towards building a self-reliant defense manufacturing landscape.

For further information, you can refer to the official statements from the U.S. Department of Defense regarding international defense agreements.

Check out this related article: Defence Stocks Surge: How Escalating India-Pakistan Tensions Could Impact Your Investments

Source link

Rafale-Marine India deal, India France defense agreement, Indian Navy Rafale jets, Rafale-Marine aircraft procurement, Indian Navy fighter jets, Aatmanirbhar Bharat defense, Rafale jet deal 2025, Dassault Rafale Marine India, Rafale aircraft Indian Navy, India France military cooperation, Defense jobs India Rafale, Rafale-Marine delivery 2030, Indian Navy aircraft carrier jets, Make in India defense sector, Performance based logistics Rafale, India and France Sign Agreement for 26 Rafale-Marine Aircraft for Indian Navy India and France Sign Agreement for 26 Rafale-Marine Aircraft for Indian Navy