Until the latest air combat, India had acquired 34 Rafale jet fighters. These are multimission platforms suitable for all combat aviation missions: air superiority and air defense, close air support, in-depth strikes, reconnaissance, anti-ship strikes and nuclear deterrence. By 2030, India will have a total of 62 Rafale jets in service, including 26 Rafale-M aircraft, making it the first country to operate both versions of the Rafale aircraft after France. India signed a €7.87 billion deal with Dassault Aviation in 2016 to acquire 36 Rafale fighter jets. All 36 aircraft were delivered between 2019 and 2022. These jets were inducted into the IAF’s No. 17 ‘Golden Arrows’ squadron based in Ambala and Hasimara, giving India a strategic air power advantage. India boosts naval power with 26 Rafale M jets in a $7.4B deal with France, enhancing aircraft carrier capability and maritime security.
