India and France to Conclude ₹63,000-Crore Rafale-M Deal on April 28, 2025
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | India and France to conclude a ₹63,000-crore G-to-G deal for 26 Rafale-Marine jets |
| Date of Finalisation | April 28, 2025 |
| Total Jets | 26 Rafale-M jets |
| Breakdown | 22 single-seater jets (carrier-capable), 4 twin-seater trainer jets (not carrier-compatible) |
| Ceremony Leaders | French Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou and Indian Defence Secretary, Rajesh Kumar Singh |
| Delivery Schedule | Starts in 3.5 years, completed in 6.5 years from signing date |
| Deployment Carriers | INS Vikramaditya (Russian-origin) and INS Vikrant (indigenously built, commissioned in 2022) |
| Modifications | Minor adjustments needed for Rafale-M jets to fit elevator dimensions designed for MiG-29Ks |
| Strategic Importance | Bridges capability gap until TEDBF project completion; enhances maritime strike and fleet air defence |
| Additional Agreements | Some government-to-business agreements to be signed during the ceremony |