India starts process to acquire 26 Marine Rafales worth Rs 50k cr

India has initiated the formal process to acquire 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets and associated equipment from France. The request for the deal, estimated to be worth around Rs 50,000 crore, has been issued by the Indian defence ministry. The deal includes 22 single-seat jets and four twin-seat trainers, along with weapons, simulator, spares, crew training, and logistics support. The French government is expected to respond with its offer and pricing within a couple of months.