NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to strengthen the Indian Navy's capabilities during his two-day visit to France. It is reported that he will sign a deal for the acquisition of 26 Rafale-Marine fighters for the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier. The deal will contribute to enhancing India's defense capabilities. Additionally, there is anticipation for a repeat order of three Scorpene (Kalveri) class submarines through the "Make in India" initiative at Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL).

Although specific details of the defense deals have not been disclosed, it is understood that India and France will sign a defense-industrial roadmap aimed at boosting India's manufacturing of hardware platforms through indigenous engines and technologies. Furthermore, Prime Minister Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron are expected to unveil a bilateral roadmap for the Indo-Pacific region. This roadmap will outline measures to ensure maritime security and freedom of navigation in the face of challenges posed by China's growing influence in the region.

The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC), under the leadership of Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, is scheduled to meet on July 13. During this meeting, the DAC aims to grant acceptance of necessity (AON) to the Indian Navy for the acquisition of the 26 Rafale-M fighters. The council will also discuss the approval of the construction of three more Kalveri class submarines at MDL. The new submarines will be equipped with air independent propulsion (AIP) technology, providing extended underwater endurance without surfacing for battery recharge. This technology has been designed by DRDO and validated by the French Naval Group.

The DAC has already granted approval for AON to acquire the 26 Rafale-M aircraft for deployment on INS Vikrant. The pricing, terms, and conditions of the acquisition will be negotiated between the French government and the Indian authorities to secure the best deal from Dassault Aviation. The aircraft will consist exclusively of single-seater versions, requiring the training of Indian Navy pilots in France and advanced simulators in Goa. While the French Navy operates twin-seater Rafale-M aircraft on the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, the Indian Navy will operate the single-seater variants. This will result in a reduced armament carrying capacity. The plan is to station one squadron (18 fighters) on INS Vikrant, with the remaining eight fighters based in Goa as reserves for rotation.

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Indian Space Research: ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)