PM Modi to ink deal with France to acquire 26 Rafale-M fighters, three attack submarines
Hindustan Times report cited. While details of the defense deals remain undisclosed, it is understood that India and France will sign a defense-industrial roadmap aimed at enhancing India's manufacturing of hardware platforms through indigenous engines and technologies. Furthermore, PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to unveil a bilateral roadmap for the Indo-Pacific, outlining specific measures to ensure maritime security and freedom of navigation in the region, which has been a subject of contention with a rising China.
According to reports, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is scheduled to meet on July 13 under the leadership of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The meeting aims to grant acceptance of necessity (AON) to the Indian Navy for the acquisition of 26 Rafale-M fighters. Additionally, the council will discuss the approval of the construction of three more Kalveri class submarines at the MDL.
The final vessel of the existing six Kalveri class submarines, INS Vagsheer, is undergoing tests and trials and is expected to be commissioned next year. The three new submarines will be equipped with air independent propulsion (AIP) technology, designed by DRDO and validated by the French Naval Group, providing extended underwater endurance without surfacing for battery recharge.
The DAC has granted approval for AON to allow AON to acquire 26 Rafale-M aircraft for deployment on INS Vikrant. The pricing, terms, and conditions of the acquisition will subsequently be negotiated between the French government and AON, with the aim of obtaining the best price from Dassault Aviation.
Read more on livemint.com
