The participation of Indian Rafale jets in the Bastille Day flypast in Paris will highlight the strong and close ties between India and France, according to Indian Ambassador to France, Jawed Ashraf. In an interview with ANI, Ashraf emphasized the long-standing association between the two nations, particularly in the field of air power. The ambassador also underlined that the partnership between India and France is based on shared values and aims to protect those values without suppressing others.
The arrival of the Indian Rafale jets in France for the flypast has been warmly welcomed by France’s ambassador to India, Emmanuel Lenain. He took to Twitter to express his excitement, stating, A warm welcome to France for the Indian Rafale jets that will soar in the skies of Paris on Friday for #BastilleDay! The Bastille Day parade holds great significance for France, as it commemorates the Storming of the Bastille Prison during the French Revolution in 1789.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the Bastille Day celebrations in France as the Guest of Honour. His presence at the event signifies the close and strong strategic partnership between India and France, with an increasing role in the future, according to Ambassador Ashraf. The tri-services contingent of the Indian armed forces will also participate in the parade.
In a major development, the Indian Defense Ministry has given initial approval to the procurement of 26 Rafale fighter aircraft and three Scorpene class conventional submarines from France. These proposals have been approved by the Defense Procurement Board and will be discussed further during the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Modi to France. The Indian Navy has been in need of these fighter aircraft and submarines to address shortages and security challenges.
The deals, which are estimated to be worth over Rs 90,000 crore, are expected to include price concessions and a greater focus on ‘Make-in-India’ content. The final cost will be determined after contract negotiations, which will take place following the announcement of the deal. The inclusion of Rafale jets in the Bastille Day flypast serves as a symbol of the close partnership between the armed forces of India and France.
Overall, the participation of Indian Rafale jets in the Bastille Day flypast underscores the strong and close relationship between India and France. This partnership, based on shared values, aims to protect those values without suppressing others. Prime Minister Modi’s attendance at the celebrations further signifies the growing role of the India-France strategic partnership in the future. The procurement of Rafale jets and submarines from France will address the security challenges faced by India, particularly in the Indian Navy.
