India set to buy missiles that sent shivers down Pakistan’s spine; talks with France underway on Rs 3,200-crore deal

India France Missile Agreement: The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to strengthen its Rafale fleet with SCALP cruise missiles. While negotiations with France for the giant purchase continue, defense officials state that the decision may be taken soon. These missiles have already proven their precision when used to target and destroy terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir during Operation Sindoor last year. Likewise, the Air Force also used these weapons on a large scale to hit important Pakistan Air Force installations.

Complementing BrahMos’ earlier use of supersonic cruise missiles, SCALP missiles were deployed from Rafale fighter jets during the military offensive. The attacks targeted terrorist camps in Muridke and Bahawalpur districts of Pakistan and all identified areas were destroyed with high precision.

After the successful neutralization of terrorist hideouts on the nights of 6 and 7 May, the IAF expanded the use of these weapons to attack 12 major air bases of Pakistan. During these operations, grounded fighter jets, surveillance aircraft, and many other strategic targets were effectively eliminated.

In addition to SCALP missiles, the IAF is also in the process of procuring a large number of Meteor air-to-air missiles for Rafale jets. These missiles will also be integrated into the 26 Rafale Marine jets ordered for the Indian Navy. Deliveries are expected within the next three to four years.

The outstanding performance of Rafale aircraft during Operation Sindoor, coupled with increasing regional security threats, prompted the IAF to offer to purchase 114 additional Rafale fighter jets. This proposal is expected to receive approval from the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) in the coming days. In the next ten to fifteen years, the Rafale fleet is expected to become the backbone of the IAF. It is expected to eventually reach a power of around 200 jets.