Rafale Aircraft: “As far as discussions on Rafale are concerned, we’re thankful to them (France) for timely deliveries. You know that contract was for 36 aircraft, 32 of which have been delivered. Out of the remaining four, 3 will arrive on time in Feb,” said the Air Force Chief
Dundigal, Telangana:
Out of the 36 Rafale aircraft for which India had signed a contract with France, 32 have been delivered and out of the remaining four, three will arrive in India on time, that is, in February next year, said Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari today.
“As far as discussions on Rafale are concerned, we’re thankful to them (France) for timely deliveries. You know that contract was for 36 aircraft, 32 of which have been delivered. Out of the remaining four, 3 will arrive on time in Feb,” said the IAF Chief while addressing a press conference in Dundigal after reviewing the Combined Graduation Parade at Dundigal Air Force Academy.
He further stated that the last Rafale aircraft which will have India-specific enhancements will be delivered after all its trials are conducted.
“Last aircraft which will have India-specific enhancements will be delivered after all its trials conclude. We discussed with Defence Minister, future maintenance issues of Rafale and setting up of D-level maintenance in India,” said the Air Force Chief on discussions with the French delegation.
The Air Force Chief’s remarks on Rafale comes a day after French Defence Minister Florence Parly, citing close strategic ties between India and France, said that her country was ready to provide more Rafale combat aircraft if India wants them.
In New Delhi for the annual defence dialogue between the two countries, the French Defence Minister also targeted China for behaving aggressively in the region including the South China Sea where it attempts to hamper freedom of navigation in open seas.
“We as France are ready to answer any additional needs or request that could be made by India. We know that an aircraft carrier will soon be delivered. Aircraft are needed. So we are open and ready to provide any other Rafale if this is India’s decision,” Ms Parly said in an interaction at the Ananta Centre think tank.
