How Is Rafale M Different From Rafale Jets?

The Defence Ministry on Thursday approved the proposed procurement of 26 Naval variant of Rafale jets from France.

The project was cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on a day Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off a two-day visit to Paris.

The DAC granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft along with associated ancillary equipment, weapons, simulator, spares, documentation, crew training and logistic support for the Indian Navy from the French Government based on an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA), the Defence Ministry said in a statement.

The price and other terms of purchase will be negotiated with the French Government after taking into account all relevant aspects, including comparative procurement price of similar aircraft by other countries. Further, integration of Indian designed equipment and establishment of Maintenance, Repair & Operations (MRO) Hub for various systems will be incorporated into the contract documents after due negotiations, it adds.

It has to be noted that India has already procured 36 Rafale jets from France for the Indian Air Force.

So How Different is Rafale M from Rafale?
Although both are identical, Rafale M has a longer, more strengthened nose and reinforced undercarriage, according to a report in The Times Of India.

Design and capabilities are also different as both work in different environments, the India Today report noted.

Rafale-M is purposefully designed to endure the distinctive demands of operations conducted on aircraft carriers. These challenges encompass high-impact landings, launches from catapults or ramps, and exposure to corrosive saltwater environments. To address these requirements, these jets are equipped with reinforced landing gear, sturdier airframes, and folding wings, allowing for efficient storage and manoeuvrability on aircraft carriers.

Here Are Some Modifications That Make Rafale Suitable For Carrier Operations:

• The undercarriage of naval fighter jets is strengthened to withstand the immense stresses associated with landing on the deck of an aircraft carrier.
• To safely and efficiently execute landings, these jets are equipped with a tail hook that allows for effective arrestment upon touchdown.
• Naval fighter jets feature a specialized "jump strut" nosewheel that extends solely during short takeoffs, such as catapult launches, providing the necessary support and stability.
• To facilitate easy access to the cockpit from the carrier deck, these jets are equipped with a convenient built-in ladder.
• For precise and safe landings, a carrier-based microwave landing system is integrated into the aircraft.
• Additionally, a new fin-tip Telemir system is incorporated to synchronize the inertial navigation system with external equipment. The Rafale M, being modified for carrier operations, carries a slightly heavier weight compared to the standard Rafale due to these necessary adaptations.
• The naval variant of the fighter jet is equipped with a specialized radar system called the Thales RBE2-M, specifically designed to excel in maritime operations.
• To effectively counter electronic threats in a maritime environment, the aircraft incorporates the Thales SPECTRA electronic warfare suite, which is tailored to optimize performance.
• Furthermore, the naval fighter jet possesses enhanced weapon-carrying capabilities, enabling it to accommodate a broader selection of armaments, such as anti-ship missiles and air-to-surface missiles, expanding its operational versatility.