| 10 July 2023
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Paris this week holds significant implications for the country's defense capabilities. According to reliable sources, PM Modi is expected to finalize a crucial deal with France, paving the way for the procurement of 26 Dassault Rafale-Maritime (M) fighter jets specifically designed for the Indian Navy's operations on the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. Additionally, the deal is said to include a repeat order of at least three Scorpene-class diesel-electric submarines, known as 'killer-hunters.'
The agreement is anticipated to be signed during PM Modi's visit to the French capital, underscoring the strengthening ties between the two nations in the defense sector. The Indian Defense Minister, Rajnath Singh, has scheduled a meeting of the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) on July 13, just before PM Modi's departure for France. The purpose of this meeting is to grant the acceptance of necessity (AON) to the Indian Navy for the acquisition of the Rafale-M fighters and to provide the green light for the construction of Kalveri class submarines at the Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL).
While the details regarding the terms and conditions of the deal and the ongoing negotiations remain undisclosed, the impending government-to-government agreement holds promise for India's naval capabilities. The inclusion of the Rafale-Maritime fighter jets will significantly enhance the Navy's operational capabilities on the INS Vikrant, bolstering India's maritime security posture.
In a separate development, it has been confirmed that three Rafale fighter jets from the Indian Air Force (IAF) will participate in the Bastille Day Parade in France. The Indian prime minister is scheduled to be the Guest of Honour at the parade, which will be held on July 14. The participation of Indian forces in the parade, including the flypast over the Champs Elysees, Paris, signifies the growing strategic partnership between India and France.
The Elysee Palace office of French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed its enthusiasm for Prime Minister Modi's presence and the involvement of Indian forces in the Bastille Day celebrations. It considers this occasion as a significant milestone in the deepening strategic, cultural, scientific, academic, and economic cooperation between the two nations. The joint statement issued by India and France in May confirmed PM Modi's attendance at the military parade and highlighted the mutual objectives that will be set during his visit.
Bastille Day, celebrated annually on July 14, holds historical and symbolic importance for France. It commemorates the Storming of the Bastille in 1789, a pivotal event during the French Revolution. This national day represents unity among the French people and serves as a platform for strengthening international alliances.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on his visit to France, the defense deals expected to be finalized during his stay will undoubtedly contribute to India's defense preparedness and reinforce the country's strategic partnerships. The acquisition of Rafale-Maritime fighter jets and Scorpene-class submarines will augment India's naval capabilities, enabling it to uphold its security interests in the region effectively.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is based on reliable sources and reports but should be considered speculative until official announcements are made by the respective governments.
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