India and France Initiate Rafale Marine Programme at Paris Air Show
India and France have taken a significant step towards enhancing naval aviation capabilities by officially launching the Rafale Marine program. This milestone was reached during a bilateral meeting at the Paris Air Show on June 19.
The Indian side was represented by Dinesh Kumar, Joint Secretary and Acquisition Manager for Maritime Systems in the Ministry of Defence. Lieutenant General Gael Diaz De Tuesta, Director General of Armament, led the French delegation.
This meeting is a critical part of India's efforts to boost its naval strike capabilities with the acquisition of the Rafale Marine fighter jet. The naval variant is intended to complement the Indian Air Force's current fleet of Rafale aircraft and is expected to operate from aircraft carriers such as INS Vikrant, thereby providing a significant advantage in maritime operations.
French defense officials have confirmed that the discussions held at the Paris Air Show represented the formal initiation of the program. The Rafale Marine jets will be customized to meet Indian Navy specifications with advanced avionics, carrier landing gear, and weapons systems.
This collaboration highlights the strengthening strategic defense partnership between India and France. Both countries have reiterated their commitment to enhancing cooperation across various fields, including maritime security, joint development, and technology transfer.
As part of India's ongoing military modernization, the Rafale Marine program is set to play a crucial role in bolstering the Indian Navy's blue-water operational capabilities within the Indo-Pacific region.
