New Delhi: India signed a deal worth around $7.4 billion with France on Monday for the procurement of 26 Rafale aircraft, according to an official statement.
According to Anadolu Agency, India and France have signed an ‘intergovernmental agreement’ for the procurement of 26 Rafale aircraft for the Indian Navy. The Defense Ministry noted that this agreement also includes additional equipment for the Indian Air Force’s existing Rafale fleet.
The agreement, signed by officials from both sides in New Delhi, includes the transfer of technology for the integration of indigenous weapons in India. Furthermore, it establishes a production facility for the Rafale fuselage.
Manufactured by France’s Dassault Aviation, the Rafale-Marine is a carrier-borne, combat-ready aircraft with proven operational capabilities in maritime environments. The delivery of these aircraft is expected to be completed by 2030, with the crew undergoing training in both France and India, as per the statement.
The Defense Ministry highlighted that the Rafale-Marine shares commonality with the Rafale currently operated by the Indian Air Force. Its procurement will significantly enhance joint operational capability, optimizing training and logistics for both the Indian Navy and IAF.
The induction of these aircraft is anticipated to add a potent force multiplier to the Indian Navy’s aircraft carriers, considerably boosting the nation’s air power at sea, the ministry stated.
In September 2016, India signed an agreement with France to purchase 36 Rafale fighter jets for $8.8 billion. France has already delivered all 36 Rafale fighter jets to New Delhi.