Rafale Marine Makes Historic First Landing on INS Vikrant
India's Rafale Marine fighter jet successfully completed its maiden landing on INS Vikrant, marking a major milestone for the Indian Navy.
In a landmark achievement for India's naval aviation, a Rafale Marine aircraft successfully completed its maiden landing on the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant on October 29. This critical milestone marks the commencement of trials aimed at operationalising the advanced fighter jets within the Indian Navy's fleet.
From Goa to the High Seas
Before this successful deck landing, the Indian Navy had been conducting extensive trials of the Rafale Marine fighter aircraft in Goa. According to defence officials, these current trials on board INS Vikrant are specifically designed to test and refine the modifications required for the aircraft to operate seamlessly from India's home-grown carrier.
The Massive Defence Deal
The landing is part of a broader strategic acquisition. On April 28, 2025, India entered into a significant defence agreement with France to procure 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets in a deal valued at approximately Rs 63,000 crore. The procurement breakdown includes:
- 22 single-seat jets for primary combat operations.
- 4 twin-seat jets for specialized roles and training.
This agreement makes India the first international operator of the naval variant of the Rafale, which is manufactured by Dassault Aviation and is already a staple of the French Navy.
Beyond the Aircraft: Training and Technology
The comprehensive contract is not limited to the jets alone. It encompasses a full ecosystem of support, including:
- Specialized pilot training and flight simulators.
- Advanced weaponry and essential flight equipment.
- Long-term maintenance and logistics support.
- Additional gear to enhance the Rafale jets currently operated by the Indian Air Force.
Furthermore, aligning with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the deal includes a Transfer of Technology (ToT) to allow the integration of indigenous Indian weapons onto the French platforms.
Boosting India's Maritime Power
The Indian Navy currently maintains two aircraft carriers: the indigenous INS Vikrant and the INS Vikramaditya. The addition of the Rafale-M fleet will significantly enhance the capabilities of both carriers.
Strategic Roles of the Rafale-M
Once fully operational, these jets will be deployed for a variety of critical missions, including:
- Air Defence: Neutralizing enemy fighter jets to protect the fleet.
- Maritime and Shore Strikes: Executing precision attacks on sea and land targets.
- Reconnaissance: Gathering vital intelligence during naval operations.
These capabilities will allow the Indian Navy to maintain dominance over the seas and exercise control while remaining safely outside the range of enemy weaponry.
Timeline for Delivery
Defence officials have indicated that the 26 Rafale Marine aircraft are scheduled to be delivered to the Indian Navy by the end of 2028 or early 2029, ensuring a powerful leap in India's blue-water naval capabilities.