Question: Tell me what you know about Rafale aircraft.
Answer: The IAF is likely to get the delivery of the first batch of four Rafale jets from France by July 2020.
The Rafale jet has been described as a “game changer" for the Indian Air Force (IAF) as it significantly increases its capabilities. Rafale is equipped with weapons including the European missile maker, MBDA's beyond visual range air-to-air missile (Meteor) and Scalp cruise missile. Besides the missile systems, the Rafale jets will come with various India-specific modifications, including Israeli helmet-mounted displays, radar warning receivers, low band jammers, 10-hour flight data recording, infra-red search and tracking systems. India is getting 30 fighter jets and six trainer aircrafts (the trainer jets are twin seater).
The first squadron of the aircraft will be stationed at Ambala air force station, which is one of the most strategically located bases of the IAF. The Indo-Pak border is around 220 km from there. The second squadron of Rafale will be stationed at Hasimara base in West Bengal. The IAF has spent around Rs 400 crore to develop required infrastructure like shelters, hangars, and maintenance facilities at the two bases.
Note:
- The four fighters were supposed to fly to their home base in India in May 2020, but the plan was delayed due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
- India ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in a deal worth Rs 59,000 crore in September 2016.