The Rafale M is the naval version of the Rafale fighter jet, designed for operation from aircraft carriers . India recently signed a deal with France to acquire 26 Rafale M aircraft for the Indian Navy .
Key Features and Information:
- Purpose: Carrier-borne fighter jet for naval operations .
- Deal with India: India is procuring 26 Rafale M aircraft from France .
- Cost: The deal is worth approximately 630 billion rupees ($7.4 billion) .
- Deliveries: Deliveries are expected to begin in 2028 and be completed by 2030 .
- Training: Indian Navy aircrew will be trained in France and India .
- Commonality: The Rafale M shares about 80% structural and equipment commonality with the Rafale E, and about 95% systems commonality .
- Payload: The Rafale M has a payload-carrying capacity of 6,000 kg .
- Weight: The Rafale M is 610 kg heavier than the land-based Rafale EH .
- Technology Transfer: The agreement includes a transfer of technology for the integration of indigenous weapons onto the Rafale Marine . It also includes the establishment of a national production facility for Rafale fuselage and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities for aircraft engines and sensors .
- Deployment: The Indian Navy intends to deploy the new jets on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier .
- Replacement: The Rafale M is expected to replace some of the Indian Navy’s existing fleet of Russian-made MiG-29K jets .
- Similarities to IAF Rafales: The Rafale M is similar in performance and specifications to the 36 Rafale EH/DH aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF) . The procurement will enhance joint operational capability and optimize training and logistics for both the Navy and IAF .
- Aircraft Details: The contract includes the acquisition of 22 single-seat and four twin-seat aircraft .
