{"id":55590,"date":"2025-04-11T14:17:00","date_gmt":"2025-04-11T14:17:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gulftimes.ae\/?p=55590"},"modified":"2025-04-11T14:17:00","modified_gmt":"2025-04-11T14:17:00","slug":"india-approves-7-6-billion-rafale-m-deal-in-strategic-push-to-counter-chinas-growing-influence-in-indian-ocean","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gulftimes.ae\/?p=55590","title":{"rendered":"India Approves $7.6 Billion Rafale-M Deal in Strategic Push to Counter China\u2019s Growing Influence in Indian Ocean"},"content":{"rendered":"


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In a landmark decision that could reshape the regional balance of power in the Indo-Pacific, the Indian government has approved the acquisition of 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets from France. This move is a clear signal of New Delhi\u2019s intent to counter China\u2019s expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean and secure its maritime interests through superior carrier-based airpower.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Valued at approximately US$7.6 billion (RM33.4 billion), the deal includes a robust suite of precision-guided weapons, training systems, maintenance support, and spare parts. Cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the agreement is expected to be formally signed during the upcoming visit of French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu, underscoring France\u2019s growing role in India\u2019s strategic defense planning.<\/p>\n

The procurement package comprises 22 Rafale-M single-seat fighters, which will operate from India\u2019s two aircraft carriers\u2014INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya\u2014and four twin-seat Rafale-B variants that will remain shore-based for training purposes. While the Rafale-B lacks carrier capability, it provides a vital transitional bridge for pilots shifting to the new French-built platform.<\/p>\n

Deliveries are expected to begin 37 months after contract signing and continue through 65 months, aligning with the Indian Navy\u2019s timeline for fleet modernization and the gradual phasing out of older platforms.<\/p>\n

The introduction of the Rafale-M will mark the end of the Indian Navy\u2019s reliance on the MiG-29K\/KUB, which has faced numerous challenges. India originally procured 45 of these Russian aircraft in two tranches (2004 and 2010), but persistent serviceability issues, delays in spare part supply, and reliability problems have plagued the fleet. The new Rafales are expected to dramatically improve operational readiness and effectiveness.<\/p>\n

Indian Navy fighter squadrons INAS 300 \u201cWhite Tigers\u201d and INAS 303 \u201cBlack Panthers\u201d have operated the MiG-29Ks for over a decade, playing a key role in India\u2019s carrier operations. However, their performance under India\u2019s demanding maritime conditions has been inconsistent, prompting this strategic overhaul.<\/p>\n

In line with its \u201cMake in India\u201d defense policy, New Delhi is reportedly in talks with Dassault Aviation to establish a final assembly line in India. This would not only support future Rafale orders but also enhance domestic aerospace manufacturing capabilities. Current procurement policy mandates 60% local production for defense acquisitions, and this collaboration could serve as a model for future contracts.<\/p>\n

This deal also includes a modernization package for the 36 Rafale fighters already in service with the Indian Air Force (IAF), which were procured under a $8.7 billion agreement in 2016. That earlier contract marked India\u2019s shift back to Western aircraft after decades of reliance on Russian platforms.<\/p>\n

The IAF\u2019s Rafales have already proven their mettle in high-altitude operations along India\u2019s northern borders, enhancing deterrence and giving India a technological edge.<\/p>\n

With this order, Dassault Aviation\u2019s Rafale backlog grows to 256 aircraft\u2014190 for export clients such as India, Egypt, the UAE, and Indonesia, and 56 for the French Air and Space Force. At a production rate of three aircraft per month, Dassault will need close to seven years to clear its current order book.<\/p>\n

The Rafale\u2019s increasing popularity is driven by its versatility, NATO compatibility, and combat-tested reliability. France has deployed Rafale-M fighters aboard its Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier in missions across the Middle East and Mediterranean, reinforcing its credentials as a world-class carrier-based fighter.<\/p>\n

The Indian Navy\u2019s Rafale-Ms will be customized for maritime operations in India\u2019s littoral and blue-water theaters.<\/p>\n