India to Procure 26 Rafale Marine Jets for Navy

By  News On Air   Apr 09, 2025

India is all set to procure 26 Rafale Marine fighter aircraft from France to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy. According to defence sources, the deal is expected to be formalised in the coming weeks. This major acquisition will include 22 single-seater and four double-seater aircraft, all tailored to meet the specific requirements of the Indian Navy.

The Rafale Marine jets will significantly boost India’s maritime defence, especially as they are intended for deployment on aircraft carriers like INS Vikramaditya and the indigenously-built INS Vikrant. These carrier-based fighter aircraft are equipped with cutting-edge radar systems, advanced missiles, and modern electronic warfare capabilities, making them a powerful asset in the Indian Navy’s arsenal.

Sources confirm that the aircraft will be designed to operate in harsh maritime conditions and come with a wide range of weapon systems, including air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles. The induction of these advanced jets is expected to multiply the Navy’s combat readiness and project greater power across the Indo-Pacific region.

This deal further strengthens the defence partnership between India and France and follows the Indian Air Force’s previous successful integration of Rafale jets. The move aligns with India’s long-term strategy of modernising its armed forces and enhancing its defence preparedness in the maritime domain.