On Monday, India and France signed a ₹63,000 crore defence deal to purchase 26 Rafale Marine combat aircraft. The deal was finalised at the Defence Ministry headquarters in South Block, New Delhi, as announced by the Indian Navy. The Security Cabinet Committee had already agreed to the deal earlier this month.

The French Ambassador to India represented France, while the Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh directed the Indian delegation. Both countries' Defence Ministers attended the signing ceremony virtually. Although the French Defence Minister planned to participate in person, he had to cancel his visit for personal reasons.

The Indian Navy urgently needs new carrier-based fighter jets to replace its former Mig-29 K fleet, which has been meeting operational difficulties because of maintenance problems. The newly purchased Rafale Marine aircraft are anticipated to be deployed on INS Vikrant, India’s homegrown aircraft carrier currently in service. The government-to-government agreement includes the purchase of 22 single-seat and four twin-seat Rafale M jets, which have been specifically modified to meet India's needs and incorporate with its aircraft carriers.

This purchase refers to a temporary measure until India develops its own carrier-based fighter jets. The deal also includes a complete package with maintenance support, logistics, training, and the production of domestic components. The Rafale M jets will join the current MiG-29K fleet aboard INS Vikrant, boosting the Indian Navy’s combat strength.

The Indian Air Force already manages 36 Rafale jets, which were purchased through a separate agreement in 2016, with squadrons stationed in Ambala and Hasimara. With this new addition, India’s Rafale fleet will expand to 62 aircraft, particularly enhancing its stock of 4.5-generation fighter jets.