The IGA was signed by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and the French Minister of Armed Forces Mr. Sebastien Lecornu.

The signed agreement, along with aircraft and weapons package supply protocols, were exchanged in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and senior officials from both sides.

Key Details of the Rafale-Marine Acquisition

Under the agreement, India will acquire:

22 Single-Seater Rafale-Marine aircraft

4 Twin-Seater trainer variants

The comprehensive package includes training systems, simulators, associated equipment, advanced weapons, and a performance-based logistics framework. The agreement also covers additional equipment for the Indian Air Force’s existing Rafale fleet.

Boosting Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Indigenous Production and Technology Transfer

In line with the Government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, the deal features significant Transfer of Technology (ToT) provisions. Key initiatives include:

Integration of indigenous weapons into Rafale aircraft

Setting up production facilities for Rafale fuselage manufacturing in India

Establishing Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) centers for aircraft engines, sensors, and weapons

This initiative is expected to generate thousands of jobs and boost the Indian defence and aerospace manufacturing sector, benefiting numerous MSMEs.

Rafale-Marine: Enhancing India's Maritime Strike Power

Manufactured by Dassault Aviation, the Rafale-Marine is a carrier-borne, combat-proven aircraft with exceptional operational capabilities in maritime environments. Deliveries are scheduled to be completed by 2030, with Indian Navy pilots and crew undergoing specialized training in both France and India.

The Rafale-Marine shares considerable commonality with the Indian Air Force's Rafale fleet. This synergy will optimize training, maintenance, and logistics across the two services, further enhancing joint operational capabilities.

Strengthening India's Aircraft Carrier Battle Groups

The induction of the Rafale-Marine fleet is set to be a game-changer for India’s naval aviation. These fighter jets will significantly bolster the Indian Navy's aircraft carrier strike capabilities, adding a potent maritime force multiplier and strengthening India’s strategic footprint across the Indo-Pacific region.