Bhubaneswar, Feb. 10 -- India is set to sign a landmark defence agreement with France to procure 114 additional Rafale fighter jets at an estimated cost of Rs.3.25 lakh crore, marking the largest defence deal in the country's history. The deal is expected to be finalised ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron's upcoming visit to India.

The Defence Ministry has already given its approval for the purchase, which will significantly boost the Indian Air Force's combat capabilities. Of the 114 aircraft, 88 will be single-seat jets, while 26 will be twin-seat variants, sources said.

President Macron is scheduled to visit New Delhi on February 18 to attend an international AI Summit. During his visit, India and France are also expected to s...