India set to finalize deal for 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets after major price cut.

According to information published by Times of India on September 30, 2024, India is on the verge of sealing a deal with France for the acquisition of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets, which are expected to enhance the Indian Navy's operational capabilities aboard its aircraft carriers.
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Rafale-M fighter aircraft. (Picture source: Dassault)

After a series of negotiations spanning over a year, a final price has been reached, marking a considerable reduction from initial estimates. The agreement, anticipated to be signed soon, is closely modeled on the 2016 contract that saw the Indian Air Force acquire 36 Rafale jets.

Discussions around the deal have gained momentum ahead of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval's visit to Paris, where talks will likely cover both the fighter jets and a separate order for three additional Kalvari class submarines to be constructed in Mumbai. These discussions are set within the framework of India and France's robust defense partnership.

The Rafale Marine jets are intended to operate from India's aircraft carriers, addressing a critical requirement for 26 carrier-borne fighters. Following extensive evaluations of both Boeing's F/A-18 Super Hornet and Dassault's Rafale M, the Indian Navy opted for the Rafale on technical grounds.

The aircraft is seen as a suitable complement to the Air Force's fleet, and will be equipped with advanced anti-ship weaponry and long-range fuel tanks optimized for maritime operations. Additionally, the Rafale Ms will come equipped with the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles, one of the most advanced systems of its kind in the region.

The acquisition is being conducted through the government-to-government route, similar to the previous deal for the Air Force. Recent amendments by the Defence Acquisition Council, led by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, streamlined the process. This included the removal of plans to integrate Indian radar and weapon systems into the naval jets, a decision made due to the high costs and an estimated eight-year timeline for completion.

While this purchase of Rafale Marine jets is seen as a temporary solution, it bridges the gap until India's Aeronautical Development Agency completes its indigenous twin-engine deck-based fighter project.