Rafale-M and Scorpene Deals: India-France Defence Package
Why in the news
Two large defence deals with France have completed negotiations and need CCS clearance.
Key facts
| Feature | Rafale-M | Scorpene |
|---|---|---|
| Quantity | 26 | 3 more, Project-75 |
| Expected closure | April 2025, during French Defence Minister’s visit | April 2025 |
| Deliveries | Four years after signing, from about 2029 | By 2029 if signed in April |
- Rafale-M will fill the gap for INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant until the indigenous TEDBF arrives; the trainers cannot operate from carriers.
- The Navy will test the jet on the French carrier Charles de Gaulle during the Varuna exercise in Goa.
- The submarine deal follows the six-Scorpene contract of Naval Group and Mazagon Dock.
- Funds can roll over because these are government-to-government deals.
Exam angle
- Approving body: CCS. Also coming: MQ-9B drone from the U.S.