Parrikar acts tough on Rafale jet deal

While Pakistan has been promised F-16s by the United States, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar is dilly-dallying on the price of French Rafale, for which an MoU has been signed with France. India has to maintain parity with Pakistan at least in the unfriendly neighbourhood, where terrorism persists. Parrikar said he is a “tough negotiator” and wants the “best price” for the Rafale fighter jets. The Minister said the budget for next financial year took into account the Rafale deal, for which money had been reserved. Asked why the deal had not been signed yet, the minister added: “Please don’t ask me to disclose my cards in national interest." At least 15% of the total payment will have to be made immediately, if the Rs 59000 crore deal is signed. When President Francois Hollande’s visited the country in January, India and France had signed an MoU for the transaction involving 36 aircraft. Differences persisted over the pricing.