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Key Points

India and France have signed a major agreement for 26 Rafale fighter jets to bolster the Indian Navy's fleet. The deal includes advanced training, logistics, and support packages, with deliveries set to start in 2028. The agreement underscores the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations. French Ambassador Thierry Mathou hailed the deal as a milestone in bilateral defence cooperation.

Key Points: India France Sign Deal for 26 Rafale Jets to Boost Navy Fleet

  • Deal includes 22 single-seat Rafale M and 4 twin-seat Rafale D jets
  • Training and logistics support part of the agreement
  • Deliveries to begin in 2028 and conclude by 2030
  • Strengthens Indo-French defence ties
2 min read

India, France sign intergovernmental agreement on 26 Rafale Jets for Indian Navy

India and France finalize agreement for 26 Rafale M jets, enhancing naval capabilities with deliveries starting in 2028.

"Today’s agreement marks a significant new milestone in the strategic partnership between France and India. – Thierry Mathou, French Ambassador"

New Delhi, April 29

India and France on Monday signed an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) for the procurement of 26 Dassault Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Navy.

The contract comprises 22 single-seat Rafale M aircraft and 4 twin-seat Rafale D aircraft. The comprehensive agreement also includes training, simulators, associated equipment, weapons, and a five-year Performance-Based Logistics (PBL) support package, according to the Embassy of France in India.

It further provides for additional equipment for the Indian Air Force's existing fleet of Rafale aircraft.

According to the Embassy of France, the signing ceremony was jointly presided over by Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, and Rajesh Kumar, Defence Secretary of India, in the presence of a distinguished delegation comprising senior officials, military officers, and representatives from the defence industry.

On this occasion, supporting agreements between the two governments and with industry partners were also concluded, further strengthening the comprehensive scope of the cooperation.

Manufactured by Dassault Aviation, the Rafale M is a proven carrier-based combat aircraft. Deliveries of the Rafale M jets will begin in 2028 and are expected to be completed by 2030. Training of Indian Navy aircrew will be conducted in both India and France, as per the Embassy.

At the signing ceremony on Monday, France Ambassador Mathou, said: "Today's agreement marks a significant new milestone in the strategic partnership between France and India. Reflecting the deep mutual trust and confidence that underpin our defence cooperation, it also highlights the ability of the French industry to align with India's evolving needs. It paves the way for stronger industrial ties and opens new horizons for our partnership."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul P.
This is fantastic news for our naval defense capabilities! The Rafale M is a proven platform and will be a game changer for our aircraft carriers. 🇮🇳✈️
P
Priya K.
While I appreciate the defense upgrade, I wonder if we could have negotiated better terms given the long delivery timeline till 2030. The technology might become outdated by then.
A
Arjun S.
The training component in both countries is a smart move. Our pilots will get the best of both worlds - French expertise and Indian operational knowledge.
S
Sanjana M.
France has been a reliable defense partner for decades. This deal strengthens that relationship further. Vive la France! 🇫🇷🤝🇮🇳
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Vikram D.
Hope the PBL support package includes proper maintenance training for our ground crews too. The best aircraft are only as good as their maintenance teams.
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Neha R.
The inclusion of additional equipment for our existing Rafale fleet shows great foresight in the agreement. Makes the whole package more cost-effective.

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