New Delhi: The Indian Navy is poised to initiate formal negotiations with a high-level French delegation for the acquisition of 26 Rafale M fighter jets, bolstering its naval aviation capabilities across two aircraft carriers. With an estimated cost of approximately four billion euros (less than Rs 40,000 crore), this deal will encompass the basic aircraft expenses, excluding missiles and maintenance contracts.
Initial Talks and Delegation Visit
Discussions will commence in New Delhi on May 30, 2024, with a delegation from France comprising senior defense ministry officials, industry representatives, and the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Dassault Aviation, along with Thales. Despite the contract signing awaiting the formation of the new government, the French side had previously submitted a detailed bid for the Rafale M in December. The objective is to finalize the agreement within this fiscal year, with deliveries slated to commence three years hence. Facilitated under intergovernmental agreements (IGA), this government-to-government deal signifies collaborative negotiations between the concerned administrations.
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Approval and Specifications
Last July, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Paris, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) sanctioned the acquisition of 26 Rafale M fighters, encompassing 22 fighter jets and four trainers. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to fortifying the Indian Navy’s aviation fleet.
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Cost Negotiations
The ultimate aircraft cost hinges on the Indian Navy’s specifications. However, adopting the French operational model could potentially reduce expenses. In France, both the Navy and Air Force operate Rafale fighters, facilitating shared maintenance and stores. Leveraging the 36 Rafale jets already in service with the Indian Air Force (IAF), India can capitalize on common maintenance practices and spare parts, thereby optimizing contract costs.
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Rafale M Capabilities and Advantages
Chosen over the American F/A-18 Super Hornets, the Rafale M exhibited exceptional performance during rigorous evaluations at Goa’s shore-based test facility. Its compatibility with the existing Rafale fleet within the IAF is a key advantage, minimizing spares and maintenance costs due to component commonality.
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Specifications
Manufactured by Dassault Aviation, the Rafale M is a versatile single-seat aircraft with a wingspan of 10.90 meters, a length of 15.30 meters, and a height of 5.30 meters. Capable of carrying an external load of up to 9.5 tonnes, it boasts a maximum speed of 750 knots (1,389 km/h) and operates efficiently at altitudes up to 50,000 feet.
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Operational Capabilities
The Rafale M excels in air-to-ground and air-to-air missions, supporting various armaments including the long-range Meteor missile, MICA missiles, HAMMER, SCALP, AM39 EXOCET, laser-guided bombs, and a 2,500 rounds-per-minute NEXTER internal cannon. Described as an “omnirole aircraft” by the OEM, the Rafale M offers adaptability to diverse combat scenarios, making it a formidable asset for the Indian Navy.
