India to Acquire 26 Rafale Jets from France: Navy Chief

New Delhi: India is poised to finalize the procurement of 26 naval variant Rafale-M fighter jets and three additional Scorpene submarines, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi announced on Monday. The announcement came during a media briefing ahead of Navy Day, underscoring efforts to strengthen India's maritime defense capabilities.

Admiral Tripathi also highlighted the government’s approval for two SSNs (nuclear-powered submarines), calling it a significant endorsement of India’s indigenous capabilities in building advanced naval platforms. “We have redoubled efforts to include niche technologies into the force,” he stated.

The Rafale-M jets, tailored for carrier-based operations, are expected to operate aboard the INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier. The procurement, approved by the Defense Ministry in July 2022, aims to enhance India’s naval aviation capabilities. The deal is likely to be finalized by January next year, the Navy Chief added.

Additionally, 62 ships and one submarine are currently under construction domestically, demonstrating the country’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Admiral Tripathi said at least one ship is expected to be inducted into the Navy within the next year, with multiple platforms awaiting commissioning.

Addressing concerns over regional security, Admiral Tripathi emphasized the Navy’s readiness to counter threats from neighboring nations, including Pakistan’s attempts to enhance its maritime prowess. “The Indian Navy is fully prepared to deal with any potential challenges in the maritime domain,” he affirmed.

The acquisition of these advanced platforms reflects India’s broader strategy to modernize its armed forces and secure its strategic interests, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Experts believe these additions will significantly bolster the Navy’s operational strength and reinforce its capability to safeguard regional stability.