India is going to take a big step towards further strengthening its air power. The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) of the Defense Ministry has approved the proposal to purchase 114 Rafale fighter aircraft from France. With this, the way has been cleared to purchase 6 P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft from America. This decision has been taken just before the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India, which is expected to further strengthen the relations between the two countries.
Green signal for deal of 114 Rafale jets
In the Defense Procurement Council meeting, approval was given to purchase 114 Rafale jets from French company Dassault Aviation. Of these, 18 aircraft will come in ready condition directly from France, while 96 aircraft will be manufactured in India. This will promote ‘Make in India’ and create new employment opportunities in the defense sector.
Big purchase of scalp missile
The Air Force will also buy about 400 SCALP cruise missiles from France. This missile is capable of accurately attacking the ground up to a distance of about 300 kilometers. It is being told that this missile was used during Operation Sindoor, in which terrorist hideouts were targeted.
6 P-8I aircraft from America
The Defense Ministry has also approved the purchase of 6 long range maritime surveillance aircraft P-8I for the Indian Navy. Their value is said to be around 3 billion dollars i.e. around Rs 27 thousand crores. The Indian Navy is already operating 12 P-8I aircraft. These additional aircraft will help in maritime surveillance and anti-submarine operations. This is considered to be the first major defense agreement after the India-US trade deal.
Why was this deal necessary?
The Indian Air Force currently has 29 squadrons, whereas the requirement is 42 squadrons. Many old aircraft are going out of service, due to which the need for new and modern fighter aircraft has increased. This purchase of Rafale is being considered an important step towards removing this deficiency of the Air Force.
Rafael’s specialty
Rafale is a 4.5-generation modern fighter aircraft. Its main features are:
- Modern AESA radar system
- long range meteor missile
- SCALP stealth cruise missile
- Advanced Electronic Warfare System
With the help of these technologies, Rafale can effectively carry out both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. In view of the military activities of China and Pakistan, India is strengthening its defense preparations. Modern and reliable aircraft like Rafale are capable of giving fast response.
