Indian Navy conducts Rafale M trials in Goa

The Indian Navy is conducting Rafale M carrier-fighter trials at its shore-based test facility at INS Hansa in Goa ahead of introducing 26 aircraft on order. The facility replicates the ski-jump takeoff conditions of INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, which operate with short takeoff and arrested recovery rather than the catapult system used by French Rafale M aircraft. The trials support adaptation of operating procedures and verification of carrier compatibility before aircraft enter Indian service. They follow India's selection of the French naval fighter and are testing activity, not a newly announced fighter order.