Indian Defence Ministry Brushes Off Objections To Rafale Selection

Despite allegations of “manipulating” the Rafale selection, India’s Defense Ministry has cleared the evaluation process that led to the purchase of 126 French Rafale fighter aircraft. The medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) contract was awarded to the lowest bidder, Dassault, on the basis of technology transfer and lifecycle cost. The contract is valued at approximately $20 billion with options for further purchases. Earlier in February, allegations suggesting the MMRCA evaluation process was rigged were raised by a member of India’s parliament. Defense Minister AK Antony responded to the allegation, saying, “The issues raised were examined by independent monitors who have concluded that the approach and methodology adopted by the Contract Negotiations Committee (CNC) in the evaluation of the commercial proposals thus far, have been reasonable and appropriate and within the terms of the Request for Proposals (RFR) and Defence Procurement Procedure, 2006". Member of the Upper House of Parliament, Rajya Sabha member MV Mysura, wrote to Antony, saying, “ The alleged manipulation of the evaluation process in picking the (Rafale), which resulted in the decision to procure 126 MMRCA has raised serious apprehensions not only across the country but also worldwide. If a proper decision is not taken, the country's credibility will be at stake". The defense minister promptly responded say that an inquiry would be ordered to look into the allegations. India will receive 18 Rafale fighters in 2015 with another 108 to be built in India with the French partnership.