New Delhi - India has officially conveyed its decision to France regarding the procurement of 26 naval versions of the Rafale fighter aircraft for the Indian Navy, initiating the acquisition process through an intergovernmental framework, according to sources familiar with the matter. The approval for acquiring the Rafale (marine) jets from France was granted by the defense ministry in July, primarily for their deployment on the domestically constructed aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant.

The purchase of the Rafale Marine jets was reportedly discussed during Defense Minister Rajnath Singh's recent visit to Paris. India has reportedly sent a formal letter of request to the French government to communicate its decision to acquire these jets from Dassault Aviation through a government-to-government arrangement. The negotiations concerning pricing and other specifics are expected to occur following a response from the French side, as noted by individuals familiar with the matter.

Earlier this month, Eric Trappier, the Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, visited New Delhi to discuss various aspects of India's proposed procurement. In July, the defense ministry announced that the acquisition of these jets, along with associated ancillary equipment such as weapon systems and spares, would be executed through an inter-governmental agreement (IGA). The price and other terms of the purchase will be subject to negotiation with the French government, taking all relevant factors into consideration. It's worth noting that the Indian Air Force had previously acquired 36 aircraft in fly-away condition.

Within the Indian Air Force, there is consideration for procuring at least two additional squadrons of Rafale jets. The defense and strategic ties between India and France have seen significant growth in recent years. In July, both nations unveiled an array of pioneering defense cooperation projects, encompassing the joint development of jet and helicopter engines, as well as the construction of three Scorpene submarines for the Indian Navy. The strategic partners have also expressed their commitment to collaborating in the co-development and co-production of advanced defense technologies, including for the benefit of other countries.