France ready to give India more Rafale jets

New Delhi : Visiting French Defence Minister Florence Parly has said that his nation is willing to provide more Rafale Jets to India.

In response to a question, Parly said, "France is ready to answer any additional needs or request that can be made by India....we are open and ready to provide any other Rafale if this is India's decision."

The Inter-governmental agreement for the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft by India in flyaway condition was signed in New Delhi on 23 September 2016. Out of 36, 33 have been delivered and three will be delivered by April of 2022.

This was the second visit of the minister to India. Earlier, she had arrived in September 2020 during the formal induction of five Rafale Jets at the Ambala airbase.

The French minister said, "Very happy that Indian Air force is satisfied with its Rafale and we are very proud that despite COVID-19 the 36 aircraft will be delivered on time, according to the contract. It's a real achievement and I was lucky enough to attend the ceremony in September last, induction of the first aircraft with the Indian Air Force. It will be a real asset for our bilateral cooperation, using the same aircraft is a real asset and strength. I am sure that there is room for new developments."

During her visit, she will be holding talks with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.