Contract negotiations between India and France for the purchase of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jet, valued at over Rs 50,000 crore, are slated to begin on May 30. A high-level French delegation is expected to arrive in India for the discussions, which will mark a significant development in the deal.
According to defence industry officials, the French team, comprising representatives from their defence ministry and industry giants like Dassault Aviation and Thales, will engage with counterparts from the Indian Defence Ministry to initiate formal negotiations. The deal aims to supply aircraft for deployment on India’s aircraft carriers, including INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.
Indian officials from the defence acquisition wing and the Indian Navy will participate in the negotiations. The government aims to expedite the process and aims to conclude negotiations and sign the agreement by the end of the financial year.
France had earlier responded to India’s tender for the purchase of Rafale Marine Fighter jet in December, submitting its Letter of Acceptance in New Delhi. The Indian side has thoroughly evaluated the French bid, including the commercial offer and contract details.
Given that this is a government-to-government contract, India is prepared for rigorous negotiations with French officials. The Navy Chief has instructed the team to expedite the project timeline to ensure swift finalization and induction of the aircraft into the inventory.