India and France have recently inked a major deal worth Rs 63,000 crore for the purchase of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft for the Indian Navy. These state-of-the-art jets will be stationed and operate from INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier. The agreement not only includes the aircraft but also encompasses weapons, training, and support for the Indian Navy. The deliveries of the Rafale Marine aircraft are anticipated to take place within a timeline ranging from 37 to 65 months. This procurement marks a significant milestone in strengthening India’s maritime capabilities and signifies a deepening defense partnership between India and France. The acquisition of these advanced aircraft will undoubtedly bolster India’s naval prowess and enhance its strategic maritime reach in the region.