India’s Air Force has been bolstered by the arrival of a third consignment of Rafale fighter jets on January 27, enhancing its combat capabilities. These state-of-the-art aircraft have joined the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) growing fleet and are a significant addition to its only Rafale squadron.
Third Delivery of Rafale Jets to India
The latest delivery marks the third installment of Rafale jets that India has received from France. This ongoing procurement is part of a larger defense deal between the two nations. The agreement, which was formalized in September 2016, involves India purchasing a total of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of Rs. 59,000 crores. With the arrival of the three new aircraft, the IAF now boasts a total of 11 Rafales in its inventory.
Strengthening the IAF’s Squadron
The addition of these new jets is set to significantly enhance the capabilities of the IAF’s sole Rafale squadron based in Ambala. This squadron, known as the 17 Squadron or the ‘Golden Arrows,’ was resurrected on September 10, 2020, and will be the first to operate the Rafale jets from the Ambala airbase. A second squadron is planned to be established at Hashimara in West Bengal, which will play a crucial role in addressing the Chinese threat along India’s Eastern front.
Previous Consignments and Operational Readiness
India’s journey with the Rafale began with the first consignment of five jets, which arrived at the Ambala airbase on July 29, 2020. This was followed by a second batch of three fighters that were delivered in November 2020. The operational readiness of these aircraft is a top priority for the IAF, and the newly inducted jets have already showcased their prowess by participating in the 2021 Republic Day Flypast, marking their debut in one of the country’s most prestigious aerial displays.
Rafale Fighters: A Technological Marvel
The Rafale fighters are manufactured by Dassault Aviation, a leading French aircraft manufacturer known for its advanced military and civilian aircraft. The Rafale is a twin-engine, canard delta wing, multirole fighter aircraft designed and built to perform a wide range of missions, including air supremacy, interdiction, aerial reconnaissance, ground support, in-depth strike, anti-ship strike, and nuclear deterrence. Its advanced avionics, exceptional agility, and capability to carry a payload of more than 9 tons of weapons and fuel make it one of the most potent fighters in the IAF’s arsenal.
Impact on India’s Defense Capabilities
The acquisition of Rafale jets is a strategic move that significantly boosts India’s defense capabilities. The aircraft’s advanced technology and versatile performance characteristics enable the IAF to maintain a technological edge in the region. As tensions continue to simmer along India’s borders, the induction of Rafale fighters provides a much-needed enhancement to the nation’s air defense, ensuring preparedness for any potential conflict scenarios. The continued delivery of these jets is a clear indication of India’s commitment to modernizing its air force and strengthening its defense infrastructure in the face of evolving security challenges.
