Indian Navy’s Transition to Rafale-M Fighter Jets

February 3, 2025

The Indian Navy recently decided to enhance its carrier-based air power by selecting the Dassault Rafale M fighter jet. This choice comes after an extensive evaluation process that pitted Rafale-M against Boeing’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. The decision reflects India’s strategic shift towards modernising its naval aviation capabilities. The Rafale-M is designed for operations on aircraft carriers, making it suitable for the Indian Navy’s needs.

Background of the MiG-29K

The MiG-29K has been integral to the Indian Navy since its introduction in 2010.
This Russian-designed jet has served aboard the INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.
Known for its agility, the MiG-29K is capable of air-to-air and air-to-surface missions.
Despite its strengths, it has faced challenges including maintenance issues and several crashes, raising concerns about its reliability.

Selection of Rafale-M

The Rafale-M was chosen for its advanced technology and capability to operate under challenging conditions.
Its design features such as a fixed delta wing configuration and stronger landing gear enhance its performance on Indian carriers.
The Indian Navy’s decision also considers operational synergy with the Indian Air Force, which already operates Rafale jets.

Defence Procurement Process in India

India’s defence procurement process is notably complex. Proposals must navigate multiple layers of approval, including the military branches and the Ministry of Defence. This system, established to ensure transparency, often leads to delays and inefficiencies. The lack of a single authority for decision-making complicates the process further, resulting in slow progress in acquiring necessary equipment.

Financial Constraints and Strategic Partnerships

India’s defence budget is relatively low compared to its GDP, causing financial challenges in procurement. The shift from reliance on Russian arms to diversifying suppliers adds complexity to negotiations and technology transfers. This transition aims to strengthen India’s strategic partnerships while ensuring modernisation of its military capabilities.

Future of Naval Aviation

The Rafale-M acquisition is a temporary measure until the development of India’s Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF), expected by 2031. The transition from MiG-29K to Rafale-M will require adjustments in training and logistics. While the MiG-29K has valuable experience, the Rafale-M’s advanced systems promise enhanced operational effectiveness.

Operational Considerations

The Rafale-M offers superior electronics and weaponry, including Meteor missiles for extended engagement ranges. Its advanced radar systems provide a tactical advantage in modern warfare. However, the MiG-29K’s proven agility in close combat scenarios remains a critical factor in naval operations.

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