On May 30, 2024, a high-level French delegation is arriving in Bharat to kick off contract negotiations for a major defence deal. This deal involves Bharat purchasing 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets from France for the Indian Navy, with an estimated value of over Rs 50,000 crore. The French delegation will engage with officials from the Indian Defence Ministry to formalize this agreement.
The French team includes representatives from their defence ministry and key industry players such as Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of the Rafale jets, and Thales, a major electronics systems company.
On the Bharatiya side, the negotiation team comprises members from the defence acquisition wing and the Indian Navy.
Sources indicate that both nations aim to conclude these negotiations and sign the contract by the end of the current financial year. This ambitious timeline underscores the importance and urgency of the deal for both countries.
France had responded to Bharat’s tender for the Rafale Marine jets back in December 2023. Their detailed response included a comprehensive commercial offer and other essential contract details. Since then, Bharatiya officials have meticulously reviewed the French proposal to understand its financial and logistical aspects.
This negotiation marks a crucial phase as it is being conducted on a government-to-government basis. Such contracts often require rigorous and strategic discussions to ensure mutual agreement on terms and conditions. Bharatiya authorities are prepared for tough negotiations to secure the best possible terms.
The Indian Navy plans to operate these fighter jets from its two aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. These jets will significantly enhance the Navy’s operational capabilities and maritime security.
The Navy Chief has directed his team to expedite the negotiation process to ensure that the project timeline is shortened. The goal is to finalize the deal swiftly, allowing for the early induction of the Rafale Marine jets into the Bharatiya Navy’s fleet.
This deal represents a significant step in Bharat’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military capabilities, reflecting the strong defence ties between Bharat and France. The successful completion of these negotiations will bolster the Indian Navy’s strength and operational readiness, providing a substantial boost to Bharat’s defence infrastructure.
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