India signed a landmark agreement with France for the purchase of 26 Rafale fighter aircraft worth approximately 630 billion rupees ($7.4 billion). This deal, which includes both single-seater and twin-seater versions of the fighter jets, aims to bolster India’s naval air power and strengthen its defence ties with France. The delivery of these aircraft is expected to be completed by 2030, with the deal providing both military and economic benefits, including the generation of jobs and business opportunities.
Key Highlights and Details
Agreement Details
- India will acquire 26 Rafale fighter jets from Dassault Aviation: 22 single-seaters and 4 twin-seaters.
- The deal is valued at approximately 630 billion rupees ($7.4 billion).
Aircraft Delivery Timeline
- The jets are expected to be delivered by 2030.
- Training for crew members will take place in both France and India.
Strengthening Defence Ties
- The deal marks a significant step in strengthening India’s defence relationship with France, which has been a major arms supplier for India.
- The purchase comes as India seeks to reduce its reliance on Russian-origin equipment, particularly in the context of geopolitical tensions with China and Pakistan.
Impact on the Indian Navy
- The Indian navy currently operates Russian MiG-29 jets and will now integrate the Rafale jets into its fleet, modernizing its aerial capabilities.
- The deal enhances India’s naval air power in the face of growing security challenges, especially with China’s increased presence in the Indian Ocean.
Strategic Importance
- India is modernizing its military in response to China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean and its strategic base in Djibouti.
- The deal also contributes to India’s aim of achieving self-reliance in defence production while boosting domestic industries through local production and jobs.
Historical Defence Relationship
- This purchase further solidifies India’s ongoing reliance on French military hardware, including past acquisitions like Mirage 2000 jets in the 1980s and Scorpene-class submarines in 2005.
Economic and Employment Impact
- The deal is expected to generate thousands of jobs and foster economic growth in several sectors, as both French and Indian businesses are expected to benefit from the associated contracts.