New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit France next month in February. He will participate in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit scheduled to be held in Paris on February 10-11. The summit aims to strengthen India-France collaboration in the field of AI, confirmed French President Emmanuel Macron.
Two Major Defense Deals Likely
According to The Hindu, the visit is expected to finalize two significant defense deals between India and France, estimated to be worth over $10 billion. These deals include the procurement of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets for the Indian Navy and three additional Scorpene-class submarines. Both deals are expected to receive approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in the coming weeks, further bolstering India-France defense ties.
Need for Rafale-M and Scorpene Submarines
The Indian Navy currently operates two aircraft carriers—INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant. The acquisition of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets, including 22 single-seaters and 4 trainers, will address a crucial requirement for these carriers. Additionally, the deal for three Scorpene submarines will strengthen the Navy’s submarine fleet, which has been facing challenges due to an aging fleet and delays in the Project-75I for six advanced submarines. The new Scorpene submarines, jointly built by France’s Naval Group and India’s Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, are expected to see the first delivery by 2031.
Focus on AI Summit
The AI Summit in Paris will focus on leveraging AI for global social, economic, and environmental benefits. PM Modi will share insights on India’s AI policies and contributions during the summit.
Commissioning of Scorpene Submarine ‘Vagir’
Before the Paris visit, PM Modi will attend a commissioning ceremony for the sixth Scorpene-class submarine, ‘Vagir,’ in Mumbai on January 15, 2025. Two other key military platforms will also be commissioned during this event.
Statement from the Navy Chief
Indian Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar recently stated that the Rafale-M and Scorpene deals are in their final stages and are expected to be signed by next month. PM Modi’s visit to France is anticipated to elevate India-France defense and technological cooperation to new heights.