Rafale M fighter jet completes first landing on INS Vikrant

The Rafale M, France's carrier-based fighter jet, demonstrated its operational capability aboard INS Vikrant in what officials described as a successful maiden carrier operation. The evolution represents a key validation of the aircraft's compatibility with India's naval platform and signals readiness for integration into fleet operations.

India signed a contract with France in April 2025 for 26 Rafale Marine variants, expanding the combat potential of the Indian Navy's air arm. The acquisition is designed to equip the navy's two operational aircraft carriers—INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya—with advanced carrier-based fighter capability.

The Rafale M represents a substantial upgrade to naval aviation prowess, offering enhanced range, payload capacity, and multi-role combat effectiveness compared to existing platforms. The aircraft is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and sensor systems suitable for maritime operations across the Indian Ocean Region.

Naval aviation specialists view the successful carrier operations as a critical validation point ahead of broader induction into service. The milestone follows months of ground preparation and integration planning between Indian naval teams and French aerospace partners. Full operational deployment of the Rafale M across the carrier fleet is expected to progress through planned phases of pilot training and systems certification.