India and France Sign Deal for 26 Rafale-Marine Aircraft
New Delhi: India and France have signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for the procurement of 26 Rafale-Marine aircraft for the Indian Navy. The agreement was signed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and French Minister of Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu.
The deal includes 22 single-seater and four twin-seater aircraft, along with training, equipment, and logistics support. The agreement also includes transfer of technology for integrating indigenous weapons and setting up production facilities in India.
The procurement is part of India’s push for self-reliance in defence production and is expected to generate employment and revenue for MSMEs. The Rafale-Marine aircraft will enhance the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities and boost air power at sea.
The delivery of the aircraft is expected to be completed by 2030, with crew training to take place in France and India. The deal will strengthen India’s defence capabilities and deepen its strategic partnership with France.
