SOURCE: AFI
In a recent conversation with ANI, Air Marshal Dilip Kumar Patnaik (Retd), a former senior officer of the Indian Air Force (IAF), voiced his strong opinion regarding the controversy surrounding the purchase of Rafale fighter jets. Patnaik, known for his extensive experience in military aviation, stated that the Rafale is a highly capable and advanced fighter jet, and he criticized the current government for halting further acquisitions of the aircraft, citing allegations of corruption as the primary reason.
Patnaik emphasized that the Rafale, built by the French aerospace company Dassault, is one of the most technologically advanced fighter jets in the world, with superior capabilities in terms of speed, payload, avionics, and Semi-stealth features. He argued that the jet has proven its worth in various military scenarios and is an essential asset for strengthening India’s air defense capabilities.
“The Rafale is a state-of-the-art fighter jet with a proven track record,” said Patnaik. “Its advanced technology, combat performance, and versatility make it a valuable addition to the Indian Air Force’s fleet. To halt the purchase of more Rafale jets based on allegations of corruption is a decision that overlooks its strategic importance.”
The controversy around the Rafale deal has been a significant political issue in India, with accusations of corruption levied by opposition parties. These allegations relate to the purchase of 36 Rafale jets in 2016, which was initially negotiated during the previous UPA-led government and later finalized under the current NDA government. The deal, which was estimated at around ?59,000 crore, sparked protests and allegations of favoritism, particularly concerning the offset clause that required Dassault to invest in Indian defense firms.
Despite the allegations, Patnaik believes that the capabilities of the Rafale jets are far too critical to India’s national defense to be dismissed based on political or unsubstantiated claims. He suggested that the defense procurement process should be based on the technical merits of the equipment rather than being influenced by political rhetoric or accusations of corruption.