Description:

India has signed a major defense agreement with France to acquire 26 Rafale-M fighter jets for the Indian Navy, marking a significant step in enhancing India's maritime air capabilities. The deal includes technology transfer, training, maintenance infrastructure, and job creation.

Summary:

  • India and France signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) worth nearly ₹64,000 crore.
  • The deal is for 26 Rafale-M (Marine) fighter jets for the Indian Navy.
  • Deliveries are set to begin mid-2028 and will conclude by 2030.
  • The agreement includes training, simulators, performance-based logistics, and integration of indigenous weapons like the Astra missile.
  • A fuselage production facility and MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) units for engines, sensors, and weapons will be set up in India.
  • The project is expected to generate thousands of jobs and boost MSMEs.
  • Remote signing was done due to the French Defence Minister’s postponed visit.

1. Background:

  • Rafale-M (Marine Version): It is a carrier-capable fighter variant of the Rafale jet, adapted for take-off and landing on aircraft carriers.
  • Need for Rafale-Ms: The Indian Navy requires modern multi-role fighters to operate from aircraft carriers INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.
  • Previous Procurement: India had earlier bought 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force, strengthening India's air superiority.

2. Key Points of the Agreement:

  • Total Value: ₹64,000 crore approximately.
  • Deliverables:
    • 22 single-seater carrier-capable Rafale-M aircraft.
    • 4 twin-seater trainer jets (not carrier compatible).
  • Timeline:
    • Deliveries to start in mid-2028.
    • Complete delivery by 2030 (within 66 months from signing).
  • Training: Conducted in both France and India for Indian Navy personnel.
  • Transfer of Technology (ToT):
    • Indigenous weapons like the Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile to be integrated.
    • Setup of production and maintenance facilities in India.

3. Strategic Importance:

  • Self-reliance: Boost to "Atmanirbhar Bharat" by encouraging Make in India through MRO and manufacturing support.
  • Operational Readiness: Enhances naval strike capabilities and power projection in the Indian Ocean Region.
  • Job Creation: Thousands of jobs for skilled workers, engineers, and MSMEs involved in the supply chain.

4. Industrial Impact:

  • Infrastructure Development: Establishment of production units for fuselage and MRO services in India.
  • Boost to MSMEs: Small manufacturers will play key roles in supplying parts and maintaining the aircraft, stimulating the defense manufacturing ecosystem.

5. Diplomatic and Defense Relations:

  • Strengthening Ties: Further deepens Indo-French strategic defense partnership.
  • Future Collaborations: Opens possibilities for future joint developments, like sixth-generation fighter projects (e.g., India’s AMCA project).

Conclusion:

This deal is a landmark in India's defense modernization and Make in India initiatives. It boosts the Indian Navy's power projection abilities and strengthens India's maritime security posture in the Indo-Pacific region. Moreover, it highlights India's growing defense industrial capabilities and deepening strategic ties with France, which is crucial amid the changing geopolitical landscape.

MCQs:

Q1. Which indigenous missile will be integrated into the Rafale-M fighter jets as per the India-France agreement?
a) Agni V
b) Astra BVR
c) BrahMos
d) Nag

Answer: b) Astra BVR

Q2. By which year is the delivery of all Rafale-M aircraft to the Indian Navy expected to be completed?
a) 2025
b) 2028
c) 2030
d) 2032

Answer: c) 2030

 

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