In a landmark move to strengthen its maritime defense, India on April 28, 2025, finalized a $7.41 billion deal with France’s Dassault Aviation for the purchase of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets. The agreement was signed at a high-profile ceremony in New Delhi attended by senior defense officials from both countries.
The newly ordered Rafale jets are specially adapted for aircraft carrier operations and will primarily be deployed on India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. This procurement follows the earlier acquisition of 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force, which significantly enhanced India’s air superiority over regional rivals.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated that the deal represents India’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces amid growing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Notably, the purchase reduces India’s reliance on Russian equipment, a strategic pivot driven by global geopolitical shifts.
Military analysts believe that the Rafale Marine jets will provide India with a critical technological edge over China’s expanding naval forces. Deliveries are expected to begin in early 2027, with full operational capability projected by 2029. India also secured technology transfer clauses, boosting local defense manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative.
The deal underscores India’s ambition to be a dominant maritime power, capable of projecting strength across the Indian Ocean.
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