Question: Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to satate :-

(a) the details of the discussions held with the Defence Minister of France during his visit to India recently and the agreements signed to the mutual benefits of both countries;

(b) the present status of the deal for procuring 126 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force;

(c) whether the Government has also negotiated for development of various defence related projects in the country including joint research and development and transfer of technology in defence sector; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

Answer: Minister of Defence (Shri A.K. Antony)

(a) The Defence Minister of France visited India from 25-27 July, 2013. During his visit, issues relating to bilateral defence cooperation and security issues of mutual concern were discussed. No agreement was signed during the visit.

(b) The proposal for procurement of 126 Medium Multi Role Aircraft for the Indian Air Force is at the stage of contract negotiation with the L1 vendor, M/s Dassault Aviation of France.

(c) & (d) Government is taking various measures to build the capability of the Armed Forces including inter alia, through technology collaboration with foreign countries. This is an ongoing process.

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