India is likely to purchase 26 naval versions of the Rafale jets and three Scorpene submarines from France during PM Modi’s visit to Paris
Before Prime Minister Modi’s trip to France for Bastille Day, sources say India is putting the finishing touches on its agreement to buy three Scorpene submarines and 26 naval variants of the Rafale fighter from France.
According to reports, the two countries are also getting near to signing a contract under which the French defense giant Safran and an Indian organization would collaborate to create an aviation engine in India.
The whole purchase agreement
According to media sources, the recommendations were approved by the Ministry of Defence’s Defense Procurement Board (DPB), and the Rajnath Singh-led Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) would shortly discuss them.
According to those involved in the process, India and France may unveil the expensive defense deals when Modi is in France.
Additionally, it has been rumored that this week may see the announcement of certain defense procurement initiatives.
However, they said that several concerns still needed to be worked out.
Indian Navy’s version of the Rafale aircraft
For the homegrown aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, the Indian Navy plans to purchase 26 deck-based fighter planes from French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation and Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.
According to information, the Rafale-M won the close race.
The Indian Air Force has already purchased 36 Rafale fighters from France, the country’s first significant purchase of fighter aircraft in 23 years after the importation of Sukhoi jets from Russia.
Three further Scorpene submarines, which would be a significant project with France, are probably in the works.
Six Scorpene submarines under Project 75 have previously been produced in India.
According to the sources, the French side and its partner Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) are now considering placing a second order for three more Scorpene submarines.
In order to power India’s next-generation aircraft, notably the futuristic Advance Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), the defense ministry is in discussions with French defense company Safran.
