Rafael M Jets
Context: The Indian Navy's induction of 26 Rafale M aircraft enhances its carrier-based strike capabilities, strengthens interoperability with the Air Force, and bolsters maritime defence amid rising regional tensions.
Important Pointers:
► Origin & Manufacturer: French-origin, carrier-based multirole fighter jets manufactured by Dassault Aviation.
► Purpose: Designed for naval operations; capable of operating from aircraft carriers.
India's Procurement of Rafale-M
► Deal Details: India signed a ₹63,000 crore deal in April 2025 to procure 26 Rafale-M jets (22 single-seaters and 4 twin-seaters) for the Indian Navy.
► Deployment: These jets will be deployed on India's aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, replacing the aging MiG-29K fleet.
Key Features of Rafale-M
► Multirole Capabilities: Equipped for air supremacy, interdiction, aerial reconnaissance, ground support, in-depth strike, anti-ship strike, and nuclear deterrence missions.
► Advanced Avionics: Features Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, Spectra electronic warfare system, and can carry Meteor air-to-air missiles.
Strategic Significance
► Enhancing Naval Airpower: The induction of Rafale-M jets will bolster India's naval capabilities, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.
► Self-Reliance and Indigenous Integration: The deal includes provisions for integrating indigenous weapons and establishing Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in India.