India set to boost Naval power with $7.6B Rafale jet deal
According to the Bulgarian Military portal, citing numerous Asian media reports, India has decided to purchase French Rafale M fighter jets. These aircraft are set to replace the currently used Russian MiG-29K fighters on Indian aircraft carriers, which have proven unreliable.
The Indian Navy has two aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. Rafale M is expected to play a crucial role in the country's plan to increase its naval aviation capabilities.
According to media reports, the contract for 26 Rafale M fighter jets has already been concluded and will be officially announced in April. India will pay France around $7.6 billion for the deal.
The Indian Navy disappointed with MiG-29K
The Indian Navy recognized the need to modernize its fleet a few years ago. While planning a competition related to a new carrier-based aircraft, the option of purchasing additional MiG-29K fighters from Russia was not considered.
The aircraft have experienced several accidents, resulting in Delhi losing several units. Those remaining in service are not rated highly; the Indian army leadership criticizes Russian fighters for their limited combat capabilities due to weak engines and faulty landing gear, among other issues. An internal audit in 2020 revealed that only 60% of India's MiG-29K fighters were fully operational. The equipment was unfit for service due to technical failures and logistical problems with components.
For years, the Russians have not been able to complete repairs on their only aircraft carrier, resulting in their inability to use MiG-29K fighters. In February of this year, a former Pentagon consultant, Reuben Johnson stated in his analysis that the MiG-29K is in trouble and its future is uncertain.
Rafale M to reinforce the Indian Navy
India maintained military ties with Russia for years, continuing to sign contracts for military equipment, but noticeably fewer than in previous years. Increasingly, they are opting for equipment from NATO countries. This trend is evident in fighter jets; India already operates 36 Rafale fighters, to which Rafale M will soon be added.
The Rafale M is a carrier-based variant adapted to operate from aircraft carrier decks. It is slightly heavier, with reinforced landing gear and several additional elements compared to the basic Rafale, yet capable of reaching a maximum speed of approximately Mach 1.8 (about 1,180 mph). It can carry various types of weaponry, including the long-range air-to-air Meteor missile.
In the Indian tender, the Rafale M outperformed the American F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. India's choice of French aircraft could have long-term benefits, as the Rafale M shares about 80% of its components with the Rafale, which may facilitate maintenance and reduce costs.
This development is another setback for Russia. India remains the world's largest arms importer, and many countries are vying for arms contracts with Delhi. Russia continues to be one of them, as evidenced by the Su-57 example, which is being offered to Indian authorities and was recently showcased at Aero India 2025.
