New Delhi: A Rafale-Marine fighter aircraft successfully landed on board India's indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant on its first attempt on 29 October, marking a step towards operationalising the French-made jets in the Indian Navy.
The landing took place during ongoing trials on board INS Vikrant, the Indian Navy said.
A Rafale Marine aircraft successfully landed onboard #IndianNavy's indigenous Aircraft Carrier #INSVikrant on its maiden attempt on 29 Oct 26.The ongoing trials mark the first steps towards operationalisation of the aircraft in the #IndianNavy. https://t.co/gIZ0h3nl80
Earlier, the Navy had been conducting trials of the Rafale-Marine aircraft in Goa to assess the modifications required for operations from the aircraft carrier, defence officials said on Wednesday.
India has signed a contract to procure 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets, with deliveries scheduled to be completed by the end of 2028 or early 2029, according to officials.
The Rafale-Marine, also known as Rafale-M, is designed to operate from aircraft carriers at sea. Manufactured by the French company Dassault Aviation, the aircraft is already in service with the French Navy.
India signed an agreement with France on 28 April 2025 to procure 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets at an estimated cost of Rs 63,000 crore.
The order comprises 22 single-seat and four twin-seat aircraft. It marks India's first acquisition of the naval variant of the Rafale, making the country the first international operator of the model.
The agreement also covers pilot training, flight simulators, weapons, essential equipment and long-term maintenance support. It includes additional equipment for Rafale aircraft already operated by the Indian Air Force.
In line with the government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the agreement also provides for the transfer of technology to integrate indigenous weapons into the aircraft in India.
The Indian Navy currently operates two aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. The 26 Rafale-M aircraft being procured from France will be capable of operating from both carriers.
The jets are intended for a range of missions, including air defence, maritime strikes, reconnaissance and attacks on shore-based targets.
They will also strengthen the Navy's ability to counter enemy fighter aircraft and protect its fleet, while helping it exercise control over maritime areas from outside the range of enemy weapons.