Paris Air Show: Rafale Marine Programme Takes Off
In a significant boost to naval aviation, India and France formally launched the Rafale Marine programme at a high-level bilateral discussion at the Paris Air Show on June 19. The initiative is a crucial step in India's efforts to boost its maritime strike capability.
Leading the Indian delegation was Dinesh Kumar, Joint Secretary and Acquisition Manager for Maritime Systems in the Defence Ministry. France was represented by Lieutenant General Gael Diaz De Tuesta, the Director General of Armament. Their meeting marked the official kickoff of India's acquisition process for the Rafale Marine — the naval derivative of the Rafale fighter aircraft, specifically intended for carrier operations.
Designed to increase the air combat capabilities of the Indian Navy, the Rafale Marine will join the Indian Air Force's already operating Rafales. The advanced aircraft are likely to be stationed on carriers such as INS Vikrant, providing a strategic advantage in securing India's sea interests.
This official program launch during the Paris Air Show is a new chapter in India-France defence cooperation, say French defence officials. This shipboard variant of the Rafale will have Indian-specific enhancements such as carrier landing ability, advanced avionics, and weapons systems.
This partnership is in line with a deeper push by both countries to strengthen their strategic defence relations. There was also a focus on future collaboration in maritime security, co-production of defence, and technology transfer of key military technology.
As India proceeds to implement its defence modernization masterplan, the Rafale Marine project is poised to be a cornerstone in building the Navy's operating presence in the Indo-Pacific, cementing India as a major maritime power.
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