India slows down Su-57 and will purchase 114 Rafale fighters

The Indian Ministry of Defence has sent a request to France for the acquisition of 114 Rafale fighters. Some of the combat aircraft will be built in the Asian republic together with Dassault Aviation, ANI reported.

According to the source, the deal amount will be about 40 billion dollars. The parties will sign an official contract by the end of the year.

Under the agreement, India will receive 12 to 18 Rafale aircraft in ready-to-operate condition. Another 97 fighters will be produced in India.

It should be noted that throughout last year and this year, India discussed with Russia the probable acquisition of Su-57 fighters. However, the Indian side initially requested a detailed report on the cost of such a project.

Nevertheless, Russian Ambassador to New Delhi Denis Alipov noted that India still maintains interest in the Su-57.