India Strengthens Naval Power with ₹63,000 Crore Rafale Deal Amid Rising Tensions with Pakistan

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Amid the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, and rising tensions with Pakistan, India has taken a significant step in strengthening its defense capabilities. Today, India signed a mega deal worth approximately ₹63,000 crore with France for the purchase of 26 Rafale-M (Marine) fighter jets for the Indian Navy. This deal is being viewed as a major setback for Pakistan.

The deal comes at a time when tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following the Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent people. India has directly held Pakistan responsible for the attack, and the Indian government has already taken several stringent measures against Pakistan, including halting trade at the Atari border.

Under this deal, the Indian Navy will receive 22 single-seat and 4 twin-seat Rafale-M jets. These aircraft will be deployed on the Indian Navy’s aircraft carriers, especially INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. The Rafale-M jets will replace the Navy’s existing MiG-29K fleet and enhance India's strike capabilities at sea.

The Rafale-M jets are known for their advanced technology, versatility, and combat capabilities. These aircraft are highly effective in precision-striking enemy targets, achieving air superiority, and maritime surveillance. Their induction into the Indian Navy will strengthen India’s strategic position in the Indian Ocean region.

Defense experts believe that the Rafale-M deal will naturally increase Pakistan’s concerns, as these aircraft will provide the Indian Navy with significant strength in both the Western and Eastern Naval Commands, allowing for effective surveillance of Pakistan’s naval activities. This deal is expected to tilt the power balance in the region in India's favor.

The deal includes not only the aircraft but also maintenance, logistics support, pilot training, and some indigenous production packages. This agreement also reflects the strengthening of strategic and defense ties between India and France. The Indian Air Force is already operating 36 Rafale jets, and with this new deal, India’s total Rafale fleet will reach 62. The delivery of these aircraft is expected to begin in the coming years and be completed by 2031-32.