France Offers Final Price for 26 Rafale Marine Jets to India Before Ajit Doval’s Visit
France has submitted its final price offer to India for the purchase of 26 Rafale Marine Jets, just before Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval’s visit to France. Defence sources revealed that the French side has provided a significant price reduction after tough negotiations.
India and France are negotiating the deal to deploy these jets on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier and other bases. Last week, a French team visited New Delhi to finalize discussions. The deal will be discussed further during the India-France Strategic Dialogue in Paris.
This deal is crucial for the Indian Navy, aiming to enhance its maritime strike capability. India has approved deviations in the letter of request, including the integration of the indigenous Uttam radar and indigenous weapons like Astra and Rudram missiles. The price is based on previous agreements for 36 Rafale fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force, incorporating some Air Force requirements like drop tanks and work stations.
The Indian side will also receive more long-range air-to-air Meteor missiles and anti-ship weaponry. The project is expected to conclude before the end of this financial year.
Doubts Revealed
Rafale Marine Jets -: Rafale Marine Jets are advanced fighter planes made by France. They can take off from and land on aircraft carriers, which are big ships that carry planes.
Ajit Doval -: Ajit Doval is India’s National Security Advisor. He helps the government with important decisions about the country’s safety and security.
Indian Navy -: The Indian Navy is the part of India’s military that protects the country’s seas and oceans. They use ships, submarines, and aircraft to do this.
Uttam radar -: Uttam radar is a special system made in India that helps fighter planes detect other planes and objects from far away. It helps pilots see what’s around them.
Astra missiles -: Astra missiles are advanced weapons made in India. They can be launched from fighter planes to hit targets in the air.
India-France Strategic Dialogue -: The India-France Strategic Dialogue is a meeting where leaders from India and France talk about important issues. They discuss how to work together on security, trade, and other matters.