The long-awaited inter-governmental agreement for the purchase for 36 Dassault Rafale Jets was signed in New Delhi on Friday 23 September between India’s minister for defense Manohar Parrikar, and his French counterpart Jean Yves Le Drian. Eric Trappier, Dassault Aviation chairman and CEO, was also present.
The deal is worth $8.7 billion, and includes aircraft in fly-away condition, weapons, simulators, spares, maintenance and performance-based logistics support for 5 years, reports The Hindu. The twin-engine fighter aircraft can operate from both an aircraft carrier and a shore base. It is capable of carrying out all combat missions: air defense, interception, ground support, in-depth strikes, reconnaissance, anti-ship strikes and nuclear deterrence.
The aircraft will be delivered in a time frame of 36 to 67 months. France will provide logistics and ground support, and ensure that 75 percent of the jets are operationally available at any time.
Last updated: December 26th, 2025
