Rafale Marine Fighter Jet Makes Historic First Landing on INS Vikrant, Moves Closer to Indian Navy Service

**New Delhi, October 31, 2026:** India's naval aviation programme has achieved an important milestone as a Rafale Marine fighter jet successfully landed on the country's indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant for the first time on October 29. According to India Today, the fighter jet completed its maiden landing on INS Vikrant on its first attempt. The successful trial marks an important step towards integrating the French-origin Rafale Marine aircraft into the Indian Navy. **Major Milestone for INS Vikrant** INS Vikrant is India's first indigenously designed and built aircraft carrier. It plays a significant role in strengthening the country's maritime defence capabilities. The successful landing demonstrates the compatibility of the Rafale Marine aircraft with the carrier's flight operations. **What Is Rafale Marine?** Rafale Marine is a carrier-based version of the Rafale fighter aircraft developed by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation. It is designed to operate from aircraft carriers and perform multiple roles, including air defence and maritime strike missions. The aircraft is being acquired as part of India's efforts to modernise its naval aviation capabilities. **What Happens Next?** The ongoing trials are intended to validate the aircraft's compatibility with INS Vikrant and support preparations for its future deployment. The successful landing represents an important development in India's efforts to strengthen its aircraft carrier operations and modernise its naval aviation fleet. The trials will continue as part of the process of preparing the aircraft for operational service with the Indian Navy.