Dassault Aviation, the prominent French aerospace manufacturer, has announced the resumption of new contract signings following a strategic reorganization of its production and supply chain.
Among the anticipated agreements, a major deal with India for 26 Rafale M carrier-based fighters, estimated at Rs 50,000 crore, is nearing finalization. This procurement will establish the Indian Navy as the second operator of the Rafale M, following the French Navy.
Dassault has outlined its production plans to accommodate the growing demand for the Rafale M. Production will accelerate in 2025 to three aircraft per month.
The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, is expected to finalize the deal soon, potentially leading to a contract signing by the end of 2024. This acquisition emphasizes India's focus on strengthening its naval air power amidst rising geopolitical tensions in the Indian Ocean.
The Rafale-M jets, optimized for carrier-based missions, are poised to significantly bolster the Indian Navy's operational capabilities. Equipped with state-of-the-art radar systems, cutting-edge weaponry, and exceptional maneuverability, these jets perfectly align with India's strategic objectives.
The acquisition is part of India's broader initiative to bolster its naval forces in response to China's expanding naval capabilities. The Rafale-M jets, slated to operate from the INS Vikrant, India's indigenously built aircraft carrier, are a testament to this strategic commitment.
The Rafale-M's selection for India's naval aviation followed an extensive evaluation process that included rigorous sea trials. The jet's proven combat record, advanced avionics, and easier maintenance, coupled with India's deepening defence partnership with France, solidified its position as the preferred choice.
Powered by two Snecma M88-2 turbofan engines, the Rafale-M can reach speeds up to Mach 1.8 and boasts a combat range of 1,850 kilometers. Its Thales RBE2-AA active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and Spectra electronic warfare suite provide advanced target detection, tracking, and self-defence capabilities.
The Rafale-M's armament versatility is equally impressive, capable of carrying up to 9.5 tons of ordnance, including air-to-air, air-to-ground, and anti-ship missiles. Its multirole capability enables it to undertake various missions, from air superiority and ground attacks to reconnaissance and nuclear deterrence.
This agreement marks another significant step in India's strengthening defence ties with France. The successful integration of Rafale jets into the Indian Air Force has laid a strong foundation for further collaboration.
