Defense News , India :- In a significant update, France has officially responded to India bid for the acquisition of 26 Rafale Marine jets intended for deployment on the Indian Navy aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.
According to defense sources, the response to India Letter of Acceptance has been formally submitted by France in New Delhi. A dedicated team of French government officials, specializing in military sales to foreign nations, has flown in from Paris to present the response to the Indian tender.
The next step involves a thorough examination of the French proposal by the Indian side, encompassing aspects such as the commercial offer, aircraft pricing, and other contract details. Given that this is a government-to-government agreement, India will engage in negotiations with French government officials.
To expedite the project timeline for the induction of the planes into the inventory, the Navy Chief has directed officials to ensure a swift process. The aim is to finalize the deal promptly and enhance the capabilities of the Indian Navy with the deployment of Rafale Marine aircraft on INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.
Approximately a month ago, India forwarded the Letter of Request (LoR) to the French government. This document serves as a comprehensive tender, outlining the specific requirements and capabilities that India seeks in the Rafale Marine aircraft for its aircraft carriers.
Both the Indian Navy and the government are working diligently to expedite the acquisition contract signing. The objective is to enable the Indian carriers to operate these highly capable aircraft, thereby providing New Delhi with a strategic advantage in the Indian Ocean region.
The defense deal, valued at around Euro 5.5 billion, received approval from the Defence Acquisition Council shortly before Prime Minister Narendra Modi visit to France as the state guest for their Bastille Day parade in July. As part of the agreement, the Indian Navy is set to receive 22 single-seated Rafale Marine aircraft, along with four trainer aircraft.
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