In a major breakthrough for bilateral ties, French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a special invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend France’s famous National Day, known as Bastille Day, on July 14. This act demonstrates the developing closeness between the two countries. During his visit, PM Modi is scheduled to bolster India’s naval capabilities by signing major deals, including the procurement of 26 Rafale-Marine jets and three attack submarines from France.
As part of this tour, PM Modi is scheduled to sign the procurement of 26 Rafale-Marine fighters for India’s newly commissioned aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. This step will boost the Indian Navy’s strike capabilities, highlighting India’s commitment to improving its military infrastructure and guaranteeing maritime security in the area.
Moreover, the deal also involves the acquisition of three additional Kalveri class submarines, which will be built at the famed Mazagon Dockyards in Mumbai. These submarines will significantly strengthen India’s submarine fleet, arming the country with state-of-the-art technology and superior defensive systems.
While speculations circulated about the prospective signing of a P75i submarines construction contract between India and France, it has come to light that the deal has already been concluded between India’s L&T and Spain’s Navantia. This shows India’s aim to improve its naval capabilities via strategic cooperation with different countries.
The two-day visit to France by PM Modi bears tremendous importance, as it confirms the strong link shared between India and France, notably in the military industry. It is a monument to the expanding collaboration between the two countries in several sectors, including military technology, marine security, and joint enterprises.
The procurement of the Rafale-Marine fighters and the new attack submarines would surely strengthen India’s naval capabilities, making it a formidable force in the Indian Ocean and beyond. These strategic purchases reflect a huge step forward in India’s aim of establishing a secure and stable maritime environment, defending its national interests and supporting regional peace and stability.