India's recent agreement with France to procure 26 Rafale-Marine aircraft for its naval fleet will significantly bolster its defence capabilities and exert strategic pressure on Pakistan, particularly in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, according to defence expert Sanjeev
Speaking to ANI, Ranjeet Rai said that the Indian Navy will celebrate the signing of the agreement between India and France and termed it a "very important day." He stated that the world would be reporting on India's agreement on the procurement of 26 Rafale aircraft.
In a statement, Trappier expressed gratitude to India for their confidence in Dassault Aviation and reaffirmed company's commitment to contribute to India's expression of its sovereign power, its strategic challenges and its ambitious vision of the future.
"The agreement includes Training, Simulator, Associated Equipment, Weapons and Performance-Based Logistics. It also includes additional equipment for the existing Rafale fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF)," the statement said.
The French Ambassador to India represented his country, while Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh represented the Indian side, among other officials. The Defence Ministers of both countries attended the signing remotely.
The Indian Air Force is carrying out Exercise Aakraman (Attack) over a large area in the central sector involving its mainstream fighter aircraft fleets led by the Rafale combat aircraft.
India and France are expected to sign their largest-ever defence deal for the sale of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft for the Indian Navy on April 28 in the presence of French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu.