India, France sign deal for 26 Rafale Marine aircraft

New Delhi

India and France signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) on Monday for the purchase of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft, including 22 single-seater and four twin-seater planes, for the Indian Navy, according to the Ministry of Defence. The agreement also covers training, simulators, associated equipment, weapons, and performance-based logistics, along with additional equipment for the Indian Air Force's existing Rafale fleet.

The IGA was signed by India's Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, and France's Minister of Armed Forces, Sebastien Lecornu. The documents were exchanged at Nausena Bhawan, New Delhi, on April 28, 2025, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

This deal aligns with India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which includes transferring technology for weapon integration, repair, and maintenance within India. The agreement also outlines the setup of a production facility for Rafale fuselages, as well as maintenance and overhaul facilities for aircraft engines, sensors, and weapons. This is expected to create thousands of jobs and boost revenue for many MSMEs.

Manufactured by Dassault Aviation of France, the Rafale Marine aircraft are designed for carrier-based combat operations with proven performance in maritime environments. The aircraft are set to be delivered by 2030, with crew training taking place in both France and India. The Rafale Marine shares commonality with the Rafale in service with the Indian Air Force, enhancing joint operations, training, and logistics for both services, while strengthening the Indian Navy’s air power at sea.