Breaking News: Indian Navy to Receive 26 Rafale-M Fighter Aircraft
The Indian Navy is gearing up to bolster its fighter fleet with the addition of 26 Rafale-M fighter aircraft, marking a significant upgrade after more than a decade. Sources reveal that a government-to-government deal worth Rs 63,000 crore is on the horizon, set to be finalized between India and France.
“Rafale – A Kinetic Push”
Former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Arun Prakash, shared insights with India Press Live on the forthcoming induction of Rafale fighter jets into the Navy. He emphasized how this move will enhance the Navy’s striking power, providing a significant boost in various aspects such as air defense, anti-shipping strike, and electronic warfare.
Admiral Prakash highlighted the advanced capabilities of the Rafale compared to the existing MiG-29K fighter jets, underscoring the potential for a more potent fleet at sea with the new additions.
Moreover, the Indian Air Force currently operates 36 Rafale fighter jets across two squadrons, showcasing the aircraft’s versatility in combat aviation missions.
‘MiG-29 Was A Hobson’s Choice For Us’
Admiral Prakash delved into the rationale behind opting for the MiG-29K in the past, citing it as a pragmatic choice given the limited alternatives available at the time. He shed light on the evolution of India’s naval aviation capabilities and the strategic considerations that influenced past decisions.
Furthermore, he touched upon the ongoing development of indigenous fighter jets like the Tejas and the future prospects of the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) in the Navy’s fleet.
Chinese Threat In The Indian Ocean?
Addressing concerns about potential Chinese naval deployments in the Indian Ocean, Admiral Prakash emphasized the need for vigilance in light of China’s expanding naval capabilities. He underscored the strategic implications of Chinese aircraft carriers operating in the region and the need for proactive measures to safeguard India’s maritime interests.
Aircraft Carriers More Vulnerable To Attacks?
In response to debates regarding the vulnerability of aircraft carriers, Admiral Prakash offered a nuanced perspective, highlighting the robust defensive capabilities of these warships. He cited recent incidents involving missile threats to underline the resilience of aircraft carriers and their ability to defend against various forms of attacks.
