The Inter-Governmental agreement between India and France was signed on April 28, paving the way for the official signing—witnessed by Dassault Aviation Chairman and CEO, Éric Trappier—of the contract for India's acquisition of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft to equip the Indian Navy.
This contract follows the announcement in July 2023 of the Rafale Marine's selection, making the Indian Navy its first operator outside France, following an international consultation. It reflects the Indian authorities' confidence in the aircraft's capabilities and their intent to broaden its operational applications.
The acquisition underlines the depth of the strategic relationship between India and France, and the Rafale's standing as a key enabler of national sovereignty.
It also reaffirms Dassault Aviation's long-standing commitment to supporting the operational needs of India's armed forces—dating back to the induction of the Toofany aircraft seven decades ago—and its dedication to contributing to the ‘Make in India' programme and the ‘Skill India' initiative, thereby ensuring a meaningful and lasting presence in India in support of national interests.
The Rafale Marine will deliver cutting-edge capability to the Indian Armed Forces, with the Indian Navy set to benefit from the operational expertise of the French Navy, which already flies the aircraft. In conjunction with the 36 Rafale jets currently in service with the Indian Air Force, the Rafale Marine will bolster national sovereignty and reinforce India's status as a prominent player on the global stage.
