India and France Finalize $7.6 Billion Deal for 26 Rafale M Fighter Jets
The agreement would include pilot training in France, Indian simulators, and potential local assembly.
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India and France have concluded negotiations for the acquisition of 26 Rafale M fighter jets, a contract valued at $7.6 billion. The official signing is expected to take place in April 2025, coinciding with the French Defense Minister’s visit to India.
Replacing the MiG-29K Fleet
As the winner of the MRCBF (Multi-Role Carrier-Borne Fighters) program, the Indian Navy will integrate Dassault Aviation’s Rafale M to replace its aging fleet of Russian MiG-29K and MiG-29KUB naval fighters, currently serving with INAS 300 "White Tigers" and INAS 303 "Black Panthers" squadrons.
The new aircraft will operate from the INS Vikrant and potentially from the INS Vikramaditya, pending a possible second contract. India originally acquired 45 MiG-29K/KUB jets, indicating that more carrier-based fighters may be needed for a full replacement.
While specific contract details have yet to be officially confirmed, reports suggest that all 26 fighters will be single-seat aircraft, and Indian Navy pilots will undergo training in France and on advanced flight simulators installed in India.
Training, Production, and Dassault Aviation’s Expansion
In addition to training in France, reports indicate that Indian naval pilots will also train at INS Hansa in Goa, using state-of-the-art simulators. However, the final training structure is still awaiting official confirmation.
Meanwhile, Dassault Aviation is considering setting up a final assembly line in India under the "Make in India" initiative. This move aims to support future Rafale orders and strengthen Dassault’s position in the MRFA (Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft) program, which seeks to procure 114 fighters for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Increasing Production to Meet Global Demand
To keep up with growing global demand, Dassault Aviation has increased its production rate from two aircraft per month to three, with a goal of reaching four or even five units per month, depending on new contracts.
In 2024, Dassault delivered 21 Rafale jets, with a target of 25 units in 2025.
Despite these advancements, supply chain challenges have prompted Dassault to expand its production infrastructure, including the opening of new facilities in Cergy-Pontoise. Establishing a final assembly line in India would not only ease supply chain pressures but also strengthen France’s presence in the Indian defense market and ensure the fulfillment of future orders.
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