Dr. Qamar Cheema, in a recent podcast at NHS Media, addressed the significant India-France deal involving the procurement of 26 Rafale aircraft by India. This transaction, valued at 6 billion US dollars, is anticipated to be finalized within the next six months.
Key Points:
- India’s procurement of 26 Rafale aircraft from France, a $6 billion deal is crucial for enhancing India’s naval capabilities in the Indian Ocean.
- The acquisition of advanced aircraft by India signifies a significant contrast with Pakistan’s possession of only the JF-17 Thunder aircraft, indicating an aerial strength gap between the two countries.
- The symbiotic relationship between India and France, driven by mutual self-interest, extends beyond the aircraft deal. France’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific region and its role as India’s closest ally in fostering a robust strategic defense partnership were emphasized.
Dr Cheema was of the view that the acquisition of these aircraft is crucial for bolstering the Indian Navy’s aerial capabilities, intending to maintain dominance in the Indian Ocean. Dr. Cheema highlighted the strategic importance of India’s investment in securing its position within the region, emphasizing the need for Pakistan to focus on enhancing its defense capabilities rather than fixating on external affairs. He stressed the significance of strategic spending and exploration of maritime resources for Pakistan’s benefit.
The acquisition is expected to fortify India’s naval capabilities, enabling engagements with groups like AUCUS, QUAD, and participation in exercises such as Malabar. Dr. Cheema noted that this deal significantly strengthens India’s defense capabilities, particularly with 22 single-seated and 4 twin-seated submarines exclusively for the Indian Navy, consolidating India’s position independently.
Comparatively, Dr. Cheema highlighted Pakistan’s possession of solely the JF-17 Thunder aircraft, signalling a significant disparity in aerial strength between the two countries. He cautioned about the potential for a limited-scale conflict involving the air force and navy in case of escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, emphasizing India’s capabilities and the need for caution from all involved parties.
Dr. Cheema accentuated the evolving nature of warfare, suggesting that land forces might become less relevant in the coming days. Highlighting the extensive strategic partnership between France and India, he noted the 25-year celebration of their alliance, underscoring the high-level engagements between the two nations. In contrast, Pakistan’s comparative lack of progress in fostering such partnerships was brought to attention.
The discussion shed light on the symbiotic relationship between France and India, driven by mutual self-interest. France, seeking an alternative partnership with India apart from the US, aims to strengthen their engagement, especially in the Indo-Pacific region. Dr. Cheema emphasized the significant Indian diaspora contributing across various sectors in France, underscoring the depth of their collaboration.
Moreover, the partnership between India and France extends beyond the aircraft deal. France has territories in the Indian Ocean and Pacific, positioning them as neighbors to the region. Dr. Cheema noted France’s aspirations to establish strong allies in the Indo-Pacific region and stressed France’s role as India’s closest ally, fostering a robust strategic defense partnership.
Highlighting recent diplomatic events, he mentioned Indian Prime Minister’s participation as the Chief Guest on the French Bastille Day and the employment opportunities provided by various French companies in India.
In conclusion, Dr. Cheema emphasized the strengthening of ties between India and France across multiple domains. He urged Pakistan to focus on building its strengths and capabilities, addressing political uncertainties and economic imbalances. Strategic decision-making is crucial for Pakistan to navigate these challenges effectively.