“The price and other terms of purchase will be negotiated with the French Government after taking into account all relevant aspects, including comparative procurement price of similar aircraft by other countries," the Indian Ministry of Defence said in a statement. The council also approved the acquisition of three additional Scorpene submarines from France. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between the two countries, Modi is the guest of honour at the 2023 Bastille Day celebrations. As part of the traditional flypast, three Indian Rafale jets will grace the skies above the Champs-Élysées Avenue.
The Indian Naval Air Arm is currently in pursuit of a replacement for its aging fleet of 40 MiG-29K aircraft. This initiative aims to equip the INS Vikrant, India's maiden indigenous aircraft carrier, with a more modern and capable fighter fleet. The French Rafale and the US-made F-18 Super Hornet underwent a rigorous evaluation process, which included a crucial requirement to demonstrate their ski-jump take-off capability. This technique, known as Short Take-Off, but Arrested Recovery (STOBAR), aligns with the operational procedures of the Indian Navy. The INS Vikrant, India's indigenous aircraft carrier commissioned in 2022, utilises the STOBAR system for aircraft launch. In contrast, the French Navy and the US Navy employ a flat deck and a catapult launch (CATOBAR) system on their respective carriers.
This story is from the August 2023 edition of African Pilot.
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This story is from the August 2023 edition of African Pilot.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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