Rafale deal controversy was unnecessary: National Security Analyst

National Security Analyst Nitin Gokhale has termed the Rafale controversy as unwanted and stressed on the need to enhance combat capabilities of the Indian Air Force, in the coming years.

New Delhi:National Security analyst Nitin Gokhale on Saturday, stated that the Rafale deal was made based on the urgent requirement of the armed forces and controversy surrounding the deal was not necessary.

Speaking to ETV Bharat, Gokhale said that purchase of Rafale jets was important to enhance combat capabilities of the Indian Air Force and hence it was an emergency.

"Rafale deal is clean. There was no other way the fighter jets could be inducted within a few years," he said.

According to the reports, the first set of fighter jets will be inducted into the Indian Air Force in September. Earlier, French ambassador to India, Alexandre Ziegler had said that Rafale will be joining the Indian air force "very soon."

Speaking about the capabilities of Rafale, in the long run, Gokhale said that it would strengthen the combat capabilities of the Air Force.

"Rafale would definitely help the Indian security establishment in the long run. The deal is good for the country. This fighter jet has the capacity to hit 150 km beyond visual range missile. In fact, enemies in Pakistan could be targeted without crossing the border," Gokhale said.

Gokhale is privy to the policies of the Government of India's defence system.

Referring to the issue of brokers in Defence procurement, Gokhale said that their movements are restricted in the ministry.

"In India, there is no legal sanction for brokers. They are under the radar and their movements are also strictly restricted in the Defence Ministry. They operate under the shadow," he added.