Delhi/Agency: The Rafale-Marine fighter jet successfully landed on India’s indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant on October 29, marking a key milestone in efforts to induct the aircraft into the Indian Navy. Officials completed the landing in the first attempt as compatibility trials continued to assess the fighter’s suitability for operations from Indian aircraft carriers.
A French pilot carried out the landing as part of the first phase of flight trials, which focuses on testing the aircraft’s compatibility with the carrier. According to the Indian Navy, trials are continuing to prepare the Rafale-M for operational service.
The second phase of the flight campaign is expected to take place in early 2027, followed by training for Indian pilots in France. The Navy currently operates MiG-29K fighter jets from its aircraft carriers. The induction of Rafale-M jets, expected from 2028 onwards, is likely to strengthen its maritime strike capabilities.
Why are the trials important?
The Rafale-M was designed for France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, which uses the CATOBAR system, involving catapult-assisted take-off. In contrast, India’s INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya use the STOBAR system, in which aircraft take off using a ski-jump ramp and land with the help of arrestor wires.
The trials are intended to establish whether the Rafale-M can safely operate under these conditions. Preparatory testing has also been conducted at the Shore-Based Test Facility at INS Hansa in Goa, which has a ski-jump ramp similar to the one on INS Vikrant.
India orders 26 Rafale-M jets
India signed a deal with France on April 28, 2025, to procure 26 Rafale-M aircraft for approximately ₹63,000 crore. The order comprises 22 single-seat fighter jets and four twin-seat trainer aircraft.
Deliveries are expected to begin by late 2028 or early 2029. The aircraft are intended to enhance the Navy’s carrier-based combat capabilities and strengthen India’s maritime security in the Indian Ocean region.
