The Indian Navy has finalized plans to buy 26 Rafale maritime fighter jets from French aerospace company Dassault. Out of this, four jets will be twin seater, which will play a key role in training fighter pilots to operate the remaining 22 single seater Rafale-M fighter jets.
The Indian Navy has selected the Rafale-M to operate from India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. Earlier Indian Air Force had selected Rafale for two fighter squadrons (36 aircraft), now Indian Navy is ready to deal Rafale-M. It is considered a remarkable step forward for the operational readiness and combat capabilities of the Indian Navy.
Rafale maker Dassault Aviation is confident that the Rafale-M will be suitable for the Indian Navy’s warship INS Vikrant. The decision to buy four twin seater Rafale jets is part of the Indian Navy’s efforts to increase its fleet of advanced fighter aircraft and maintain a highly skilled and efficient pilot force.
