Why Rafale landing on INS Vikrant matters: How French fighter jet will boost Indian Navy's carrier capabilities
A Rafale-M fighter jet successfully landed on INS Vikrant on October 29, marking a key step towards operationalising the aircraft in the Indian Navy.
On October 29, a French Rafale Marine fighter jet made its maiden landing on India's indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, signaling a crucial advancement in the Navy's efforts to integrate the aircraft for carrier-based operations. This successful attempt marks the first step towards operationalizing the Rafale Marine (Rafale-M) fleet, with 26 such jets set to bolster India's naval capabilities under a defense deal with France.
The landing, executed by Captain Ashok Rao, underscores the compatibility of the Rafale-M with the limited deck space of an aircraft carrier and the demanding conditions of take-offs and landings at sea. The Indian Navy's ongoing trials focus on the necessary modifications and operational requirements for the aircraft to operate from INS Vikrant.
In addition to air defence and maritime strike missions, the Rafale-M will enhance the Navy's reconnaissance capabilities and enable it to target land-based objectives. The agreement, signed on April 28, 2025, includes pilot training, flight simulators, and long-term maintenance support, with the first Rafale-M deliveries expected by late 2028 or early 2029.
This milestone brings India closer to having a modern multirole fighter integrated into its carrier aviation capabilities, significantly enhancing its maritime defense and strategic positioning.
Written by urgent.news from Live Mint's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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