India and France sign Intergovernmental Agreement on 26 Rafale Jets for Indian Navy

New Delhi, April 28, 2025. The Government of the French Republic and the Government of the Republic of India today signed an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) for the procurement of 26 Dassault Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Navy.

The contract comprises 22 single-seat Rafale M aircraft and 4 twin-seat Rafale D aircraft. The comprehensive agreement also includes training, simulators, associated equipment, weapons, and a five-year Performance-Based Logistics (PBL) support package. It further provides for additional equipment for the Indian Air Force’s existing fleet of Rafale aircraft.

The signing ceremony was jointly presided over by H.E. Mr Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, and Mr. Rajesh Kumar, Defence Secretary of India, in the presence of a distinguished delegation comprising senior officials, military officers, and representatives from the defence industry. On this occasion, supporting agreements between the two governments and with industry partners were also concluded, further strengthening the comprehensive scope of the cooperation.

Manufactured by Dassault Aviation, the Rafale M is a proven carrier-based combat aircraft. Deliveries of the Rafale M jets will begin in 2028 and are expected to be completed by 2030. Training of Indian Navy aircrew will be conducted in both India and France.

At the signing ceremony, the Ambassador of France to India, Mr Thierry Mathou, said: “Today’s agreement marks a significant new milestone in the strategic partnership between France and India. Reflecting the deep mutual trust and confidence that underpin our defence cooperation, it also highlights the ability of the French industry to align with India’s evolving needs. It paves the way for stronger industrial ties and opens new horizons for our partnership”.