Instead of buying more Mirages outright in early 2000s, the requirement was tweaked in favour of a medium-weight, multi-role fighter with Mirage-like performance.
This agreement is not with regard to any specific project like the planned co-development of fighter engines, but an overarching agreement that will enable a host of joint development and research.
In a chat with ThePrint newsroom, French Ambassador Thierry Mathou indicated talks are on between French firm Safran & Indian govt for joint design & manufacture of AMCA engine.
The new engine, set to be developed over the next 10 years, will power the second tranche of Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft. First set will be equipped with GE 414 engines.
MRFA deal will entail Rafale fighter & it will involve Dassault Aviation setting up a final assembly line in India in partnership with a defence industry player, ThePrint has learnt
India also developing 87 Twin Engine Deck Based Fighters. Indian Navy initially sought 145, based on three-carrier force plan, but govt advised planning based on two-aircraft carrier force.
The French CSG is led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle that can operate up to 40 aircraft. Exercise Varuna, featuring the two navies, began in 2001.
Since the region beyond NJ 9842 did not have any military presence and had not seen any action neither side contemplated that it would become a bone of contention in the future.
We now live in a world order that will keep shifting. India must use this window. This also means we remain disciplined enough not to be knee-jerked into reacting to what Pakistan sees as its moment in the sun.
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