Defence ministry gives initial nod for 26 Rafale jets, 3 Scorpene submarines

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders with France's Naval Group, the report added. The ageing fleet of India's Russian-made platforms, Moscow's inability to perform maintenance work, and delays in India's indigenous manufacturing plans for parallel platforms have necessitated the two new defence deals. Details on the deal value are not known yet, Reuters said.

India has relied on French fighter jets for four decades now. Much before buying Rafale in 2015, India bought Mirage jets in 1980s, which still comprise two squadrons of the air force. In 2005, India bought six Scorpene-class diesel submarines from France for Rs 18,800 crore ($2.29 billion), the last of which will be commissioned next year.

With the ongoing tour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to France, bilateral talks were expected to lead to a deal for naval fighter jets. On Thursday, ET reported that the Indian Navy has been given a go-ahead to acquire 26 Rafale M fighter jets to meet urgent requirements. Meanwhile, a formal signing of the deal was on the agenda as it will require time for negotiations to be undertaken.

The estimated cost for the said jets is around 5.5 billion euros. ET reported that India will make six of the submarines at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders and approvals have been given to make another three. The cost of additional submarines is expected to be around 4 billion euros.

Reflecting the trust and depth of strategic relationship, France is also expected to announce a technology transfer of helicopter engines to India. This would lead India to become self-reliant in a key technology area and open the way for Indo-French collaboration in engines for the next three to four decades. The visit coincides with the 25th anniversary of the India-France