India to Procure 26 Rafale-M Jets and 3 Scorpene Submarines from France

New Delhi: India has approved the procurement of 26 Rafale-M jets and 3 Scorpene submarines from France. The decision was made by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

The Rafale-M jets are the naval variant of the Rafale fighter jets that India already procures from France. They will be used to equip the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. The Scorpene submarines are also being built in India under a technology transfer agreement with France.

The procurement of these aircraft and submarines is a major boost to India’s defence capabilities. It will help to strengthen the Indian Navy’s ability to project power in the Indian Ocean Region.

The DAC also approved a proposal to lay down guidelines for achieving the “desired indigenous content in all categories of capital acquisition cases”. This will help to promote self-reliance in the defence sector and reduce India’s dependence on foreign suppliers.

The procurement of the Rafale-M jets and Scorpene submarines is a significant step in India’s efforts to modernize its armed forces. It is also a sign of the strong strategic partnership between India and France.