The sixth batch of Rafale fighter jets took off from France to India on Wednesday as three more jets depart, said the Indian embassy to PTI. The fighter jets will be part of the second squadron of Rafale jets in the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Watch | Rafale jets take off from France for non-stop flight to India

“Next batch of three #Rafales leave from France to India today; wished the pilots smooth flight and safe landing,” said the Indian embassy in France on Twitter. After the arrival of the jets, the number of Rafale jets in IAF will go up to 21.

The new squadron of Rafale jets will be based in Hasimara airbase in West Bengal. The first Rafale squadron is based in Ambala air force station. A squadron comprises around 18 aircraft.

India had signed an inter-governmental agreement with France in September 2016 for the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore.

Also read | Indian Air Force brings 4 cryogenic oxygen containers from Singapore

The first batch, which was of five Rafale jets, arrived in India on July 29, last year. The fifth batch had landed on April 21, this year.

Last month, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria visited France, during which he took stock of the delivery of the remaining Rafale aircraft to India.