Correct option is A
Sol. Rafale is a French twin-engine multirole fighter aircraft developed by Dassault Aviation. India signed an inter-governmental agreement with France in 2016 to procure 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force. The aircraft is capable of air superiority, ground support, aerial reconnaissance, and nuclear strike missions. Rafale jets significantly enhance India's aerial combat capabilities. It is equipped with advanced avionics, radar systems, and Meteor and SCALP missiles.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) Fighter aircraft – Correct. Rafale is a fourth-plus generation fighter jet used for air combat, deep strike, and intelligence missions. It has been inducted into the Indian Air Force to boost national security.
· (b) Nuclear submarine – Incorrect. India operates nuclear submarines like INS Arihant, not Rafale. Submarines are underwater vessels, unlike aircraft.
· (c) Assault Rifle – Incorrect. Assault rifles are infantry weapons, such as AK-47 and INSAS. Rafale is an aircraft, not a firearm.
· (d) Anti Tank missile – Incorrect. Anti-tank missiles like Nag or Spike are ground-based systems designed to destroy armored vehicles. Rafale has no such classification.