Indian Navy’s Preference for Rafale Marine Fighter Jets over F-18 Super Hornets
The Indian Navy has stated its inclination towards the French Rafale Marine fighter jets as their preferred choice, favouring them over the F-18 Super Hornets provided by the United States. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to France on July 17 is anticipated to include the announcement of a substantial deal worth billions of dollars for the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets. These advanced carrier-borne fighters are intended to replace the ageing MiG 29Ks currently deployed on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier. The selection of the Rafale Marine was primarily driven by its significant similarity to the Indian Air Force’s existing Rafales, leading to potential cost savings in terms of training, repairs, and maintenance.
Image source : Shutterstock
The Indian Navy’s decision to opt for the Rafale Marine represents a strategic move towards enhancing its naval aviation capabilities. By choosing the French fighter jets, India aims to leverage the advantages of operational synergy with its Air Force, which already operates the Rafale aircraft. The commonality between the two variants will not only simplify the training process for naval pilots but also streamline logistical and maintenance procedures. This alignment allows for potential cost efficiencies and optimized utilization of resources, making the Rafale Marine a favorable choice for the Indian Navy as it seeks to modernize its carrier-based fighter fleet aboard the INS Vikrant.
The search for a suitable fighter aircraft for deployment on the INS Vikrant, conducted by the Indian Navy, has reached its conclusion with the selection of Dassault’s Rafale Marine. This aircraft shares more than 80% of its features with the Indian Air Force’s Rafales, and this fleet commonality was a significant factor in the Navy’s preference for the French fighters. The Navy’s decision was further influenced by the impressive capabilities demonstrated by the Rafale-M during a joint exercise and operational demonstration test conducted in India. Following these tests, the Navy communicated to the Ministry of Defence that the Rafale-M was the most suitable option to meet its requirements.
Instead of opting for an open tender route, the acquisition of the Rafale Marine fighter jets will be pursued through a government-to-government deal. To support this acquisition, the Ministry of Defence has devised a comprehensive contract covering maintenance, spares, and training. As part of this contract, an onboard maintenance facility will be constructed on the INS Vikrant, while a ground facility will be established in Goa. The Rafale Marine fighters will be equipped with advanced maritime systems, including maritime search radars capable of detecting submarines and warships. These additions will further enhance the naval capabilities of the Indian Navy.
Image source : Shutterstock
Detailed Contract and Infrastructure Development
The Indian Ministry of Defence has developed a comprehensive contract for the maintenance, spares, and training aspects of the upcoming acquisition of the Rafale Marine fighter jets. This contract encompasses various components such as the establishment of an onboard maintenance facility on the INS Vikrant and a ground facility in Goa. It also includes training programs designed for both the ground crew and pilots involved in operating the aircraft.
The decision to procure the Rafale Marine fighter jets was heavily influenced by the anticipated cost savings resulting from the fleet’s commonality with the Indian Air Force’s Rafales. The significant similarities between these two variants of the Rafale aircraft will facilitate streamlined training, repairs, and maintenance procedures, ultimately reducing expenses for the Indian Navy.
Additionally, the Rafale Marine fighters will be equipped with advanced maritime systems, notably sophisticated maritime search radars capable of effectively detecting submarines and warships. These advanced capabilities directly align with the Indian Navy’s requirements for bolstering its maritime surveillance and defence capabilities.
Image source : Shutterstock
Short-Term Acquisition to Meet Immediate Needs
While the Indian government is actively engaged in a long-term plan to develop indigenous deck-based fighters in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), the immediate requirements of the Indian Navy will be met through the direct procurement of Rafale Marine fighter jets. Although efforts are underway to create indigenous deck-based fighters through the collaboration between the Aeronautical Development Agency and HAL, these aircraft are still in the developmental phase and will require few more years before its deployment..
In order to bridge the gap and ensure the Indian Navy’s operational readiness, the decision has been made to acquire the Rafale Marine jets. This acquisition will enable the Navy to effectively meet its short-term needs. By opting for the Rafale Marine, the Navy can leverage the existing capabilities and operational performance that have been demonstrated during joint exercises and tests.
The procurement of the Rafale Marine fighter jets will significantly strengthen the Indian Navy’s capabilities, particularly in terms of maritime surveillance and defense. It also underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s overall defense capabilities, ensuring the security and preparedness of the nation.
