In a move set to significantly bolster its naval capabilities, India is reportedly on the verge of finalizing a deal with France for the acquisition of 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets and three Scorpene submarines. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the deal could be sealed within the next few weeks.
While an official announcement has not yet been made, speculation is rife that the procurement may be unveiled during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Paris next month. Modi is scheduled to attend a summit on artificial intelligence on February 10th and 11th, and is expected to hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron.
According to sources, both deals are in the advanced stages of negotiation and are awaiting final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). The Indian Defence Ministry had previously greenlit the purchase of 22 Rafale-M jets in July 2023, primarily for deployment on the indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. The acquisition of three additional Scorpene submarines was also approved at the same time.
This latest purchase will add to the existing fleet of six Scorpene submarines already built in India under Project 75. These submarines were constructed by Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) in collaboration with France's Naval Group.
The procurement of the Rafale-M jets, along with associated weaponry, spares, and ancillary equipment, will be conducted through an inter-governmental agreement (IGA), similar to the previous acquisition of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force. There are indications that the Indian Air Force may be considering procuring additional Rafale squadrons in the future.
This potential deal underscores the growing defence and strategic partnership between India and France. In July 2023, both nations announced a series of ambitious joint defence projects, including the co-development of jet and helicopter engines.
They also pledged to collaborate on the development and production of advanced defence technologies, with the possibility of extending these advancements to third countries.
