India has struck a major deal with France regarding the modernization of its naval aviation, reports the analytical publication Bloomberg, citing high-ranking sources within the country’s Ministry of Defence
According to the new data, under this agreement, India will purchase 26 modern Rafale fighters from France, which will fully replace the outdated Soviet-era MiG-29Ks currently performing combat missions from the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya. This strategic decision is part of India's efforts to strengthen the defensive capabilities of its naval forces and enhance its presence in the important region of the Indian Ocean. It is estimated that the contract's value has reached approximately 640 billion rupees, or about 7.4 billion USD. The deal includes the delivery of a vital component for the Indian Navy — 22 single-seat fighters and four two-seat training aircraft, which will improve tactical capabilities and operational flexibility of the naval aviation units. Additionally, France guarantees technical support and maintenance for the French Rafale aircraft already acquired in 2016 for the Indian Air Force — totaling 36 aircraft. According to Bloomberg, preparations for reconfiguring the Indian Navy’s aviation component are already underway. The new French fighters will be based on the Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, which is currently part of the fleet. Instead of this, the older Soviet MiG-29Ks are still operating on the second, refurbished aircraft carrier — INS Vikramaditya — which now urgently needs to be replaced. This strategic procurement has significance beyond the military aspect; it also has political implications. India aims to bolster its position amid growing strategic tensions with China in the Indian Ocean region, which hosts major international trade routes and key transportation corridors. The new French fighters will become an important part of the national defense system, ensuring operational readiness and increasing security in this strategically vital part of the world. It is expected that the implementation of this contract will not only allow for the replacement of outdated equipment but also signal a deepening of India’s military-technical cooperation with France, strengthening its position on the global stage.