Aerospace
Indian Defence Ministry greenlights Rafale purchase, France ready to offer naval SCALP missile
The Indian defense ministry has given preliminary approval to buy 26 Dassault Aviation Rafale fighter jets and three Scorpene class submarines built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders in collaboration with France’s Naval Group. The news comes during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day trip to the western region. France has apparently agreed to arm the Scorpene submarines with air-independent propulsion with a naval cruise missile.
According to an official statement from the Defence Ministry, three recommendations were approved today during a meeting convened by Rajnath Singh.
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The Indian Navy will receive four trainer aircraft in addition to 22 single-seat Rafale Marine aircraft under the proposals. Due to shortages brought on by the nation’s security concerns, the Navy has been advocating for the rapid acquisition of these fighter planes and submarines.
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To satisfy urgent needs, the Indian Navy has been granted approval to purchase 26 Rafale M combat jets. Meanwhile, a formal signing of the agreement was scheduled because negotiations would take time. The claimed jets are projected to cost roughly 5.5 billion euros.
According to the report, India would build six submarines at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, with authorization for another three. The additional submarines are projected to cost roughly 4 billion euros.
France is also anticipated to announce a technology transfer of helicopter engines to India, reflecting the trust and depth of the strategic alliance. This will enable India to achieve technological self-sufficiency in a crucial field and pave the way for Indo-French cooperation in engines over the next three to four decades.
