In an attempt to promote the F-15EX fighter jet, the Pentagon is working hard to increase competition for India’s large Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) deal.

The US is making a major effort to reverse the more than 70-year trend of American fighter jets failing to find a home in the Indian market.

The F-21 is perceived as a slight improvement over the F-16V, and Pentagon officials are aware that the Indian Air Force (IAF) has been hesitant to adopt it.

This hesitation was made clearer when the US lost the contract to supply the Indian Navy with fighter jets mounted on carriers to the French Rafale M. A vital opportunity for the US to get into the IAF’s fighter jet lineup is now presented by the MRFA tender.

Despite the challenges, the Pentagon believes the F-15EX has strong potential. The IAF has shown some interest in the F-15EX due to its proven track record and advanced capabilities. However, the competition is stiff, and the IAF’s selection process is rigorous.

on otherside, United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unexpectedly canceled its US$20 billion agreement with France for the purchase of 80 Rafale fighter jets, a decision that has sent shockwaves through the global defense industry.

The cancellation follows the brief detention of Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, by French authorities—an incident that has strained diplomatic relations between the UAE and France, despite Durov’s subsequent release on bail.

France had viewed the Rafale deal as a cornerstone for boosting its defense industry, with significant implications for both economic growth and international standing.

The freezing of this contract represents a major setback for French President Emmanuel Macron, who had championed the deal as a symbol of France’s strategic partnership with the UAE.

The decision also delivers a blow to Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of the Rafale jets, which now faces uncertainty regarding future orders.

The UAE’s cancellation of the deal is seen as a clear message that geopolitical tensions can rapidly influence major business agreements.

Analysts are closely monitoring the situation for any further developments, particularly as this decision may affect other nations considering similar deals with France.