Rafale Marine trials underway in Goa for INS Vikrant operations

Indian Navy is conducting trials of the Rafale Marine fighter aircraft in Goa to validate the modifications required for operating the French-origin aircraft from India's indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, marking a key step towards strengthening the Navy's carrier-based combat capabilities.According to ANI, citing defence officials, the trials are focused on modifications needed to adapt the aircraft for operations from INS Vikrant. The Indian Navy has signed a contract for 26 Rafale Marine aircraft, with deliveries expected by the end of 2028 or early 2029.The trials are significant because INS Vikrant uses a Short Take-Off But Arrested Recovery (STOBAR) system, in which aircraft take off using a ski-jump ramp and land by engaging arrestor wires on the flight deck.