The Rafale-Marine jets will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s capabilities, with features like longer-range precision strike missiles and the ability to carry the 650-km range Scalp-EG cruise missile. The jets — 22 single-seater and four twin-seater variants — will be deployed primarily on the indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and can also be used by the Indian Air Force in case of a crisis.
The deal includes India-specific add-ons, such as establishing a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) hub, integrating India’s Astra missile, and sourcing from local suppliers. Deliveries of the jets are expected to begin three years after the contract is signed, with the entire fleet to be in place by 2031.
The procurement of Rafale-Marine jets is an interim measure to meet the country’s expanding security needs until the indigenous twin-engine deck-based fighter (TEDBF) is developed. TEDBF is expected to make its first flight in 2028.
