India has signed a Rs 63,000 crore Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) with France to acquire 26 Rafale Marine combat aircraft. The IGA includes 22 single-seater jets and 4 double-seater jets for the Indian Navy. It also includes additional equipment for the existing Rafale fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The deal was signed by India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and France's Minister of Armed Forces, Sebastien Lecornu, at Nausena Bhawan, New Delhi. The signed agreement was exchanged by the respective officials of both the companies in the presence of India's Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and the French ambassador to India.
In line with the government's emphasis on Make in India, the agreement includes the transfer of technology for the integration of indigenous weapons in India. It also includes setting up a factory in India to make parts for the Rafale jet, along with setting up centres to repair and maintain aircraft engines, sensors, and weapons. This deal is expected to create thousands of jobs and bring in revenue for many small and medium businesses that will help build and operate these facilities.
The crew are undergoing training in India and France, as the delivery of these aircraft is expected to be completed by 2030. The Rafale-Marine, manufactured by Dassault Aviation, France, is a carrier-borne, combat-ready aircraft with effective performance capabilities in maritime conditions.
Rafale-Marine shares similarities with the Rafale being operated by IAF. Its acquisition will not only boost the joint operational capability but also help in maximising training and logistics of the aircraft for both the IAF and the Indian Navy. This procurement would enhance India's air strength in the maritime environment.
