India Looking To Speed Up Procurement Of Rafale Decoy System: What Is It?

India is moving forward with efforts to enhance the defensive capabilities of its Rafale fighter jet fleet, with plans to speed up the procurement of a sophisticated decoy system.

The upgrade aims to bolster the Rafale’s ability to defend against hostile missiles, ensuring the aircraft’s effectiveness in complex airspace conditions.

This decision follows the aircraft’s successful use during Operation Sindoor, where Rafale jets played a key role in missile strikes on Pakistani air installations, media reports said.

What role did the Rafale fighter jets play during Operation Sindoor?

During the initial phase of Operation Sindoor, Rafale fighter jets executed precision missile strikes on key Pakistani air installations. Using SCALP long-range missiles, the Rafales successfully targeted early warning aircraft shelters, unmanned aerial vehicle facilities, command centres, and airfields, striking them with pinpoint accuracy.

The operation showcased the Rafale’s capability in engaging high-value targets with long-range precision, reinforcing the need to further enhance its defensive systems.

How does the X Guard decoy system improve the Rafale’s defence capabilities?

The X Guard fibre optic towed decoy system, developed by Israel’s Rafael, is designed to enhance the Rafale’s missile defence capabilities by acting as a target for incoming threats. Attached to the aircraft via a fibre-optic cable, the decoy system replicates the fighter jet’s signature characteristics, drawing missiles away from the actual aircraft.

Deployed during high-risk missions, the X Guard ensures that incoming air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles are diverted, significantly improving the aircraft’s survivability in hostile environments. The system is designed to be easily retracted and stored within its pod after mission completion, making it both reusable and efficient.

What is the current status of the X Guard system’s integration into the Rafale fleet?

The X Guard system has already been integrated and successfully tested on the Rafale aircraft, with the Indian Air Force placing an order to upgrade the fleet. However, delivery schedules have been delayed due to supply chain disruptions and ongoing conflicts in West Asia.

Despite these challenges, authorities are working to expedite deliveries, recognising the critical role the system will play in enhancing the Rafale’s defensive capabilities. The system is already in use by the Israeli Air Force and will significantly enhance India’s ability to operate the Rafale in contested airspace.