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