India rafale marine aircraft deal: India boosts naval power with 26 Rafale

India boosts naval power with 26 Rafale M jets in a $7.4B deal with France, enhancing aircraft carrier capability and maritime security. India and France are poised to sign their largest-ever defence agreement on April 28, 2025, with the Indian Navy set to acquire 26 Rafale - Marine fighter jets. This landmark deal , worth approximately ₹63,000 crore ($7.5 billion), represents a significant enhancement of India 's naval air capabilities and further strengthens the strategic partnership between the two nations. French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu will arrive in India on April 27 for the signing ceremony, which is scheduled ... India signs ₹63,000 crore deal with France for 26 Rafale -M naval jets to strengthen maritime strike capabilities amid Indo-Pacific tensions. Deliveries to begin in 2029. The Rafale Marine jets are intended for deployment on India 's indigenous aircraft carriers and will significantly enhance the Navy's air power at sea. The Rafale Marine , a carrier-based version of the combat-proven Rafale fighter, is known for its advanced avionics, weapons systems, and operational versatility.