Jaishankar Heads to France for G7 Meeting Amidst Hormuz Crisis, Rafale Deal on Agenda

• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is visiting France for the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting on March 26-27, 2026.
• The visit is crucial for national and geopolitical reasons, with discussions expected on global security and challenges.
• A key agenda item is the potential acceleration of the 3.25 lakh crore rupees deal for 114 Rafale fighter jets.
• The Rafale F4 version, an advanced model, features improved sensor fusion, RBE2 AESA radar, and satellite connectivity.
• The deal emphasizes 'Make in India,' with 96 out of 114 Rafale aircraft planned for manufacturing in India through a partnership between Dassault Aviation and an Indian industrial partner.