Rafale-M jets to give Indian Navy operational edge: Former Indian Navy Petty officer

Jamshedpur, April 11: In a significant move to bolster naval strength, the Indian government has approved the purchase of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets from France for the INS Vikrant, the country’s first indigenous aircraft carrier.

The deal includes more than just aircraft—it covers weapon systems, simulators, spare parts, crew training, and logistical support, all to be provided by the French government. The acquisition is seen as a temporary solution until India’s own Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) is developed.

“The Rafale Marine will give the Indian Navy an operational edge at sea,” said former Petty Officer, Indian Navy Varun Kumar. “Its strong airframe, advanced landing gear, and corrosion-resistant materials make it ideal for aircraft carrier operations in tropical conditions.”

The INS Vikrant, built at a cost of Rs 20,000 crore at Cochin Shipyard, follows the STOBAR model—where aircraft take off using a ski-jump and land via arrestor wires.

India’s Air Force already operates 36 Rafale jets, purchased earlier for Rs 59,000 crore. The induction of the naval variant ensures uniformity in training, logistics, and maintenance, making operations more streamlined across services.

The Rafale Marine, a naval version of the IAF’s Rafale, comes equipped with cutting-edge weapon systems, enhancing India’s maritime strike capabilities.