National Security Advisor Ajit Doval will be on a two-day visit to France, where final discussions on the Rafale Marine jet deal will possibly take place. Notably, the visit comes following France submitted its final price offer for the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine jets, which includes 22 single-seaters and four twin-seater trainer versions.
This deal is significant for the Indian Navy as it seeks to replace its aging fleet of MiG-29K fighters and improve its maritime strike capabilities. France has submitted the final price offer for the *26 Rafale Marine jet deal* to India, just ahead of Doval’s visit to the country.
According to the media reports, the French side provided the final offer after the negotiations, which included a price reduction. This comes as both the countries work towards finalising the contract, which is important for boosting the Indian Navy’s maritime capabilities.
Doval’s two-day visit to France aims to focus on wrapping up the deal, following the submission of this final offer. India is keen to finalise the contract by the end of this fiscal year. France has provided a significant price reduction, and Doval’s meetings with French officials are expected to bring the deal closer to closure. The Defence Acquisition Council has already approved the proposal, making it a priority for both the countries to wrap up the agreement.
India and France have also focused on incorporating more Make in India components into the deal during the negotiations. This is in line with India’s broader goal of developing its own defence manufacturing industry. India has requested the integration of indigenous systems such as the Astra beyond visual range missiles, Rudram anti-radiation missiles, and the Uttam radar for future upgrades.
However, integrating these systems could extend the project timeline and the procurement of Rafale Marine jets from Dassault Aviation is seen as a major step in strengthening the Indian Navy’s capabilities. This purchase will mark India’s second major acquisition from France in recent years, following the deal for 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force.
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