New Delhi, 4 May: Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar report on 36 Rafale fighter jet negotiations between India and France which is to start in this May 2015.
Indian Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar told in a report that, India is going to negotiate Rafale Fighter Jet deal with France this month. As reported earlier during PM Modi’s visit to France, discussion on buying 36 Rafale Jets finished. French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian is visiting India for further process.
Parrikar in his statement told that the negotiation for Rafale deal may start any time in this month and Govt of India is planning to give a final touch to it as soon as possible. Drian’s visit to New Delhi is scheduled on 5th May and discussion with Parrikar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval may takes place on 6th May.
As reported earlier, total worth of Rafale Deal is estimated to be over $6 billion. Govt already appointed a special committee for the said negotiation and focusing to complete it in a time bound manner.
Addressing to press Manohar Parrikar said, “Drian will visit only for the purpose of working out the modalities and to take the process forward. We will not be directly involved in future talks. The committee is being appointed for it by two governments to kick-start the process and fixes the modalities.”
“Basically the policy consists of exports, ‘Make in India’ initiative, level playing field for suppliers, policy on agents and black listing policy besides others.”he further added.
According to Indian defense source, the manufacturer of Rafale fighter jet Dassault Aviation is likely to begin a joint venture with HAL, India. This endeavor is indented towards setting-up a base in India to extend the production line of Rafale.