Well Mr Modi is in USA. We should pay attention to what is happening there, as it is relevant to this thread.
I am sure USA can take this opportunity to make an offer on F-16 or F-18.
We all know that Rafale was a political choice primarily. Harping on technical parameters does not help in understanding the situation.
BJP has a very strong US constituency (people who want better ties with USA). The government has changed without Rafale deal happening. I think French miscalculated and bargained too hard on tech transfer which delayed the deal.
IAF mismanaged the contract by hiding too many cost items from bidding process.
I think there is still a possibility India may end up with F-16 or F-18. USA knows Pakistan is not a future market for its fighters. Pakistan has become China's client state. India has the dubious distinction of being World's largest weapons importer. USA will try everything in the book to hard-sell fighters.
I am sure USA can take this opportunity to make an offer on F-16 or F-18.
We all know that Rafale was a political choice primarily. Harping on technical parameters does not help in understanding the situation.
BJP has a very strong US constituency (people who want better ties with USA). The government has changed without Rafale deal happening. I think French miscalculated and bargained too hard on tech transfer which delayed the deal.
IAF mismanaged the contract by hiding too many cost items from bidding process.
I think there is still a possibility India may end up with F-16 or F-18. USA knows Pakistan is not a future market for its fighters. Pakistan has become China's client state. India has the dubious distinction of being World's largest weapons importer. USA will try everything in the book to hard-sell fighters.