India Approves $7 Billion Deal for 26 Rafale Marine Jets for Navy
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Value | ₹63,000 crore (Over $7 billion) |
| Approval Authority | Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) |
| Deal Structure | Government-to-Government (G2G) agreement between India and France |
| Aircraft Composition | 22 Single-Seater Carrier-Compliant Rafale-M Jets, 4 Twin-Seater Trainer Jets |
| Purpose | Operate from INS Vikrant, enhance carrier-based air power and maritime strike capabilities |
| Offset Obligations | Includes indigenous manufacturing, local employment, boost defense ecosystem |
| Additional Inclusions | Fleet maintenance, logistical support, weapon systems, spares, training |
| Rafale (M) Usage | Tailored for naval operations, STOBAR capabilities |
| Indo-French Naval Ties | Strengthened by exercises like Varuna, focus on ASW and carrier ops |
| Scorpene Submarine Deal | Approval for 3 additional Scorpene-class submarines, await CCS clearance |
| IAF Linkage | IAF operates 36 Rafale jets, deal to upgrade aerial refuelling systems |