Pakistan, April 28 -- India has signed a major defence deal with France to buy 26 Rafale fighter jets worth $7.4 billion. The agreement includes 22 single-seater and four twin-seater jets from French company Dassault Aviation. The Indian defence ministry confirmed that deliveries will be completed by 2030, and training will take place in both India and France.

This purchase aims to modernise India's navy, which currently relies heavily on Russian MiG-29 jets. The deal also supports India's broader push to reduce its dependence on Russian arms and increase local defence production. Additionally, it is expected to create thousands of jobs and generate revenue for Indian businesses.

The deal strengthens India's defence ties with France, it...