New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) is set to finalise a deal worth Rs 63,000 crore with France, under which the Indian Navy will acquire 26 advanced Rafale M fighter aircraft. These jets will replace the older MiG-29K aircraft and will be deployed on aircraft carriers such as INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.
This will be a government-to-government (G2G) deal, which has received approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). If implemented successfully, the first batch of aircraft is expected to arrive in India by the end of 2029, with all 26 fighters scheduled for delivery by 2031.
Components of deal
The agreement includes the procurement of 22 single-seater and 4 twin-seater Rafale M fighter jets. The package also covers:
1. Logistics support
2. Repair and maintenance of the aircraft
3. Training for naval pilots and technicians
4. Manufacturing of certain parts in India (under the offset policy)
The Rafale M is the naval variant of the French Rafale fighter aircraft, specifically designed for operations on aircraft carriers. Its features include:
1. Strong landing gear and arrester hook
2. Short Take-Off But Arrested Recovery (STOBAR) technology
3. Advanced Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and Spectra electronic warfare system
4. Capability for long-range missiles like Meteor, SCALP, and Exocet
5. A top speed of 1.8 Mach and a range of over 1850 km
6. Air-to-air refueling capability
Preparation is also underway for new submarines
In addition to the Rafale M jets, India plans to build three new Scorpene-class submarines to further enhance its naval capabilities. This project will be undertaken in collaboration with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai and France’s Naval Group, thereby strengthening India’s position in underwater warfare.
Strategic significance of deal
China is increasingly establishing its presence in the Indian Ocean and the Indo-Pacific region. This strategic move by India sends a strong message to China that the country is prepared to address any maritime challenges.
The arrival of the Rafale M and Scorpene submarines will modernize the Indian Navy and enhance its combat readiness, enabling it to play a decisive role in potential conflicts or confrontations.
The Rafale M deal could be a game-changer for the Indian Navy, significantly improving India’s maritime security and its capacity to counterbalance powers like China. This initiative reflects India’s commitment to strengthening its defence strategy and maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
MiG aircraft and its shortcomings
The development of the MiG-29 aircraft began in the Soviet Union during the 1970s. This multi-role fighter aircraft is designed for air-to-air combat and air-to-ground attack.
The Indian Navy acquired the MiG-29K aircraft from Russia in 2004, with these aircraft being inducted into service in 2009. They were deployed on the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya.
The purchase of MiG-29 aircraft was a significant milestone for the Indian Navy, enhancing its air defence capabilities. These aircraft are known for their speed, surveillance abilities, dogfighting skills, and weapon capabilities.
However, the Indian Navy now seeks to replace the MiG-29s, as these aircraft have become less effective due to their age. The MiG-29 aircraft are now 30 to 40 years old, which has diminished their effectiveness. Maintenance has become increasingly difficult due to the unavailability of spare parts. The performance of the MiG-29 is now inferior compared to more modern fighter aircraft.
