India gears up to provide Rafale-M and submarine
India Set to Purchase Submarines and Fighter Jets from France
In a move to strengthen its defense capabilities, India is expected to sign an agreement with France for the supply of submarines and fighter jets. The deal is set to be finalized during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France this week.
India, which has recently ramped up its defense imports, is preparing for a significant procurement. According to reports from the Indian press, PM Modi is set to announce an order for 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets for the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier during his two-day visit to France.
Furthermore, as part of the same visit, it is anticipated that India will place an order for three additional Scorpene (Kalveri) class submarines. These submarines will be constructed by Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL) under the “Make in India” policy. Currently, the sea acceptance tests for INS Vagsheer, the latest Scorpene submarine built for India, are underway, and it is scheduled to be delivered to the Indian Navy next year.
The three additional Kalveri-class submarines will be equipped with an air-independent propulsion system (AIP). This technology, designed by DRDO, allows the submarines to stay submerged for over a week without the need to resurface for battery recharging. The AIP system will be tested and approved by the French Naval Group.
In terms of the fighter jets, all 26 Rafale-M aircraft to be procured will be single-seat. Eighteen of these jets will be stationed aboard the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier, while the remaining eight will be deployed at the ground air base for training and maintenance purposes.
India’s increasing focus on defense modernization is evident with its recent order for armed drones worth $3 billion from the United States.
The signing of this agreement between India and France further strengthens the strategic ties between the two countries and highlights India’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities.
