India is going to sign a deal worth over Rs 63,000 crore to buy 26 from France Rafale Marine Fighter Jets

The gust jets lined up on the flight deck of Air France Charles de Gaulle. |Photo source: Dinakar Peri

The Cabinet Security Committee (CCS) finally approved a deal for 26 Rafale Marine Fighter Jets from France, worth more than $7 billion in Indian Navy. These include 22 single-seat carrier-compliant jets and four two-seat trainers.

The deal is worth more than Rs 6.3 billion and will be implemented under the French government-government agreement Anni Reported cited government sources.

It also includes a comprehensive package for maintenance of fleet maintenance, logistical support, personnel training and Indigenous manufacturing components that are offset obligations.

In July 2023, the Ministry of Defense approved the purchase of 26 waves of aircraft (ocean) jets from France, mainly for deployment on the locally built aircraft carrier Ins Vikrant.

In the picture | May be at sea

The ministry also cleared three scorpion submarines purchased from France. However, CCS has not cleared the project yet.

According to the Indian Navy’s 75 Project, in partnership with the French Navy Group, Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) has built six scorpion submarines in India.

The procurement of gust (M) jets and related auxiliary equipment including weapon systems and spare parts will be based on the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA).

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has operated 36 gust jets at its bases in Ambara and Hashimara. The new Rafale Marine Deal will also help enhance IAF’s capabilities, including upgrading its “partner-buddy” aerial refueling system.

(with input from ANI, PTI)