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Rafale makes first landing on INS Vikrant

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In short

Recent shipboard compatibility tests have validated critical modifications required for the multirole fighter to operate safely from the indigenous carrier. The milestone builds upon India's April 2025 procurement contract valued at roughly Rs 63,000 crore for 26 naval aircraft. In addition to bolstering fleet air defense, the bilateral program includes extensive technology transfers to establish domestic maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities.

Key points

  • Incorporating the French-built multirole jet broadens the Indian Navy's overall operation…: Incorporating the French-built multirole jet broadens the Indian Navy's overall operational reach across the Indian Ocean region.
  • The acquisition contract incorporates technology transfers enabling the integration of in…: The acquisition contract incorporates technology transfers enabling the integration of indigenous weapon systems onto the carrier fighters.
  • Domestic facilities will be constructed to handle fuselage manufacturing alongside mainte…: Domestic facilities will be constructed to handle fuselage manufacturing alongside maintenance, repair, and overhaul for engines and sensors.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

The Indian Navy has been conducting flight trials of the Rafale Marine in Goa to assess the aircraft's compatibility with INS Vikrant and validate the modifications required for carrier-based operations, sources said.

The latest landing is part of the process to establish the aircraft's operational suitability for deployment from the indigenous carrier. The trials are intended to ensure that the fighter can operate safely and effectively from the ship before it joins the Navy's fleet.

India signs Rs 63,000 crore deal for 26 Rafale Marine jets

India signed an agreement worth approximately Rs 63,000 crore with France on April 28, 2025, to procure 26 Rafale Marine aircraft for the Indian Navy.The package includes 22 single-seat fighter jets and four twin-seat trainer aircraft, along with weapons, simulators, training, associated equipment and logistical support. Deliveries are scheduled to be completed by 2030, with Indian personnel undergoing training in both France and India.

The agreement also provides for technology transfer to facilitate the integration of indigenous weapons into the aircraft. It includes plans to establish Rafale fuselage production facilities in India, as well…

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