Rafale-Marine Fighter Jet

News: India and France has inked an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for the procurement of 26 Rafale-M aircraft – 22 single-seater and four twin-seater – for the Indian Navy.

About Rafale-Marine Fighter Jet

• It is a single-seat, carrier-borne, 4+ generation aircraft capable of performing a wide range of missions, including deep strikes, air defence, and reconnaissance.
• Manufactured by: France’s Dassault Aviation
• It is also described as an “omnirole aircraft“, meaning that it can conduct both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions
• It is designed to operate from aircraft carriers and will be deployed on aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, replacing the ageing MiG-29K fleet.
  • This is possible because of various modifications, including a reinforced undercarriage, strengthened landing gears, folding wings and a longer and strengthened nose.
• Weaponry: It will be loaded with the Meteor and MICA air-to-air missiles, SCALP cruise missiles, Exocet anti-ship missiles and ASTRA Mk1 air-to-air Beyond Visual Range Missile.
• A great advantage that accrues with the induction of the 26 Rafale Ms for the Indian Navy is the commonality with the IAF Rafales which provides the desirable scope for interoperability and joint training.

About the deal

• Indian Navy will become the first international user of Rafale-M.
• Composition: The deal for 26 Rafale-M fighter jets includes four trainer aircraft (twin-seater).
• The agreement includes Transfer of Technology for integration of indigenous weapons in India.
• It also includes setting up of a production facility for Rafale fuselage as well as Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facilities for aircraft engine, sensors and weapons in India.
• Delivery time: It would begin between the next three to four years and is likely to be completed by 2030.