India has signed a deal with France to purchase 26 Rafale fighter jets, marking a significant step in India’s efforts to modernize its military hardware. The deal, worth billions of dollars, includes both single and twin-seat planes and will join 36 French-made Rafale fighters already acquired by New Delhi. The jets will operate from Indian-made aircraft carriers, replacing the Russian MiG-29K jets. India has been diversifying its military equipment purchases in recent years, including from France, the United States, and Israel. The deal comes as tensions between India and Pakistan have reached new lows, with the two countries exchanging gunfire, diplomatic barbs, and expelling each other’s citizens. India has also been expanding its defense capabilities, including the launch of its first homemade aircraft carrier and a successful hypersonic missile test. The deal is seen as a key market for global arms suppliers, with India becoming the world’s largest arms importer.
Reference : https://www.spacedaily.com/reports/India_says_signs_deal_with_France_for_26_Rafale_fighter_jets_999.html
