India and France are set to ink a landmark $7.5 billion (Rs 63,000 crore) deal on April 28, 2025, for 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets to strengthen the Indian Navy’s carrier-based operations.

Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the agreement includes 22 single-seater jets and four twin-seater trainers, designed for deployment on INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant. Deliveries are slated to begin in 2028-29, with full induction by 2031-32, phasing out the aging MiG-29K fleet.

The deal, signed remotely by Defence Ministers Rajnath Singh and Sebastien Lecornu, with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and French Ambassador Thierry Mathou presiding in New Delhi, encompasses maintenance, logistics, personnel training, and local manufacturing under offset obligations. 

Also Read: #EXCLUSIVE: War Chemicals from China Caused Iran Blast! Find Out What Happened

The Rafale-M, equipped with advanced weaponry like Meteor and Exocet missiles, enhances India’s maritime strike capabilities amid rising Chinese naval activity in the Indian Ocean.

This acquisition follows the Indian Air Force’s 36 Rafale jets, leveraging shared logistics for efficiency.

The Navy recently showcased its prowess with successful anti-ship and medium-range surface-to-air missile tests from INS Surat. While the Rafale-M bridges gaps until the indigenous Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter is ready, critics argue India’s reliance on foreign arms underscores the need for faster domestic innovation. 

Given the world's current position, with global focus on building up military might, its interesting to see India's double focus on domestic development and acquisition of external arms. 

Also Read: No Remorse! Major Crackdown in Kashmir! Hundreds Detained