World · India Bureau
Rafale Marine Successfully Lands on INS Vikrant in Historic Test
The French-origin Rafale Marine fighter jet has completed its maiden arrested landing on India's indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, marking a significant milestone toward operational readiness. The successful test brings the naval variant closer to full service integration with the Indian Navy.
LSN India ·
The Rafale Marine aircraft executed its first arrested landing on the deck of INS Vikrant, demonstrating the carrier's capability to operate the advanced fighter platform. The test was conducted as part of ongoing trials to validate the ship's operational systems and aircraft integration procedures.
INS Vikrant, India's first domestically-designed and constructed aircraft carrier, has been undergoing rigorous evaluation to ensure all systems meet operational standards. The successful landing of the Rafale Marine represents a crucial validation point in the carrier's journey toward full commissioning with the Indian Navy.
The Rafale Marine is a specialized naval variant of the Rafale fighter jet, equipped with features designed for carrier operations including reinforced landing gear and arresting systems. India has integrated this aircraft type into its naval aviation fleet to enhance maritime surveillance and combat capabilities.
The successful test paves the way for increased operational trials and the eventual deployment of Rafale Marine squadrons aboard INS Vikrant. The carrier is expected to become a cornerstone of India's naval power projection capabilities in the Indian Ocean region once fully operational.