Ajit Doval to visit France today, Rafale deal among key agendas: Sources

This meeting comes soon after France submitted the final detailed offer for the Rafale deal in the negotiations held in New Delhi, sources told India Today.

In Short

• France submitted final offer for Rafale deal
• Deal includes 22 single-seaters and 4 twin-seaters
• Defence Acquisition Council has already given its approval for the purchase

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval will be on a two-day visit to France from Monday. The Rafale deal will be one of the main agendas during his meeting with key officials there, defence officials told India Today TV.

This meeting comes soon after France submitted the final detailed offer for the Rafale deal in the negotiations held in New Delhi, they said. The Indian side is keen to wrap up the negotiations and complete the contract by the end of this fiscal year.

This project is important for the Indian Navy's fighter aircraft fleet, complementing the existing Russian-origin MiG-29K fighters. If the deal goes through, the Rafale Marine jets from Dassault Aviation will replace the currently deployed MiG-29s, marking India's second major purchase of fighter jets from a French defence manufacturer in recent years.

The procurement includes 22 single-seated Rafale Marine aircraft and four twin-seater trainer versions. The acquisition talks come at a time when the Indian Navy has been facing a shortage of aircraft and submarines, emphasising the urgency of meeting its requirements.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has already given its approval for the purchase, paving the way for a significant boost to India's naval arsenal. India and France have been in talks for enhancing Make in India elements in the present order as India wants to develop its aircraft manufacturing industry.