New Delhi: India has given the go-ahead for a high-value government-to-government agreement with France to acquire 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets, reported Business Standard, citing sources.

The contract, estimated to be worth over ₹63,000 crore, is likely to be signed in the near future.

The Indian Navy will receive 22 single-seat and four twin-seat variants under the deal.

This follows the Defence Ministry's approval in July 2023 to procure the French-made Rafale-M jets, which are primarily intended for deployment on the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.

First deliveries by 2029, full induction by 2031

The first batch of jets is expected to be delivered by the end of 2029, with all 26 aircraft likely to be inducted by 2031. These fighter jets will be deployed on India’s two aircraft carriers—INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant—eventually replacing the ageing fleet of MiG-29K jets.

Added advantage for IAF’s mid-air refuelling plans

Besides boosting naval strength, the Rafale-Ms are also expected to benefit the Indian Air Force’s in-flight refuelling capability.

Once inducted, these jets will support the IAF’s "buddy-buddy" refuelling system, where up to ten Rafales can refuel one another in the air, considerably extending their range and mission endurance.

The IAF currently operates 31 fighter squadrons—well below the sanctioned strength of 42—raising questions about its long-term operational readiness.

Rafale jets already part of IAF's frontline fleet

The Rafale has already become a key asset in India's air power arsenal. In 2016, India signed a €7.87 billion agreement with Dassault Aviation to procure 36 Rafale jets.

Deliveries began in 2019, with the first batch arriving in Ambala in July 2020 after a transcontinental flight from France.

These jets were initially inducted into No. 17 Squadron “Golden Arrows” in Ambala and later into No. 101 “Falcons” Squadron based at Hashimara.

Enhanced features tailor-made for India

The Indian Rafales are equipped with 13 custom enhancements, including upgraded radar capabilities and low-band jammers, specifically designed to suit the IAF’s operational requirements.

The Rafale Marine jets are expected to feature similar upgrades, offering the Navy a state-of-the-art multirole platform capable of operating in diverse combat scenarios.