The Indian Air Force (IAF) will take delivery of the final four Rafale fighter jets from France starting in February, all of which are equipped with India-specific enhancements that will provide additional strength against any regional adversary.
It is understood that the three Rafale fighter jets are expected to leave the Istre Tour air base northwest of Marseille in southern France around February 1-2 depending on weather conditions, and arrive in India after proper aerial refueling by close allies. , the United Arab Emirates Air Force, using Airbus multipurpose transport tankers.
While the last fighter is almost ready for new paint and enhancements, it won’t arrive until April 2022 for reasons best known to the IAF. The last of the 36 contracted fighter jets from France is actually following deliveries from France. The fighter was inspected by Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar at the Istres air base during his visit to France for a high level defence dialogue in December 2021.
While the IAF has remained mum on specific enhancements to India’s Rafale, it is understood that these enhancements are related to long-range Meteor air-to-air missiles, low-band frequency jammers, advanced communications systems, more capable radio altimeters, radar warning receivers , high-altitude engine start, synthetic aperture radar, ground moving target indication and tracking, missile approach warning system and VHF range decoys
Following the arrival of the fighter jets, the IAF will test specific improvements to its satisfaction under Indian conditions, in addition to validating the OEM’s claims under the agreement. After this, modifications to the remaining 32 aircraft will begin at Ambala in the western region and Hashimara air base in the eastern region, with specific improvements made by India to all relevant equipment of the Indian Air Force. The upgrade exercise will take place at the Ambala Air Base, which houses the maintenance and repair facilities for India’s Rafale fighter jets.
Complete News Source : Hindustan Times
