On December 2, 2024, Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Indian Navy, announced during a press conference that a defense agreement with France is expected to be signed by January 2025. The agreement includes the acquisition of 26 Rafale-M naval fighter jets and the constructing of three additional Scorpene-class submarines, as reported by Financial Express. This collaboration reflects the growing strategic relationship between New Delhi and Paris, aimed at addressing increasing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, marked by China's maritime expansion and Pakistan's naval activities. Read more.
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| The Rafale-M is optimized for maritime operations, featuring a reinforced structure and landing gear tailored for catapult launches and deck landings (Picture source: French MoD) |