India finalizes Rafale fighter for MMRCA deal

India finalizes Rafale fighter for MMRCA dealThe Indian authorities have finalized the Rafale fighter of Dassault Aviation for its $10.4 billion medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) deal, according to the French company.

The Rafale fighter piped the other finalist, Eurofighter Typhoon to bag the contract from the Indian air force. Indian officials indicated that they will soon enter exclusive talks with the French company for the supply of 126 multi role aircraft for the Indian Air force.

Dassault said in a statement that, “Following the announcement of the final selection of the Rafale in the frame of the MMRCA program, Dassault Aviation and its partners are honored and grateful to the Indian Government and the people of India to be given the opportunity to extend their long-lasting cooperation.”

According to sources, the Indian government has completed the process to determine the lowest bidder and the final contract will be signed soon. The French company will have to deliver first 18 aircraft from its own facilities while the remaining 118 will be manufactured in partnership with an Indian company.

The government’s invitied attracted bid from six contenders including, Russia’s MIG-35, USA’s F-16 Falcon from Lockheed Martin, F-18 Hornet of Boeing, Swedish Saab Gripen, European EADS EuroFighter Typhoon and Rafale.