I think one of the reasons we bother is to secure trade deals......that went well then didn't it.....

I think the lads from Top Gear have a lot to answer for in this instance.

It's beyond my understanding how anyone can like the Rafale.
I mean it is FRENCH. :shock:

Jaws, please tell me.

French aviation is hot!!!!:-P

http://i.imgur.com/T7qhn.jpg

It's disappointing seeing aviation fans complaining the Indians didn't fall for politics and selected a fighter based on capability and price.

The Gripen was in the competition, together with F16, Super Hornet, Mig-35 and Eurofighter, but all except the Typhoon dropped out in December.
Rafale and Eurofighter went into the last phase of the competition and the Rafale won.

It was a good competition based on performance, capabilities and in the final, price.

I wish all military contracts would be awarded this way.

Well said.

More often that purchasing is based on political considerations combined with who can bribe the best and we end up with something like this ...

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphot...09135491_n.jpg

Erm, no.

Obligatory 'does it come with white flag dispensers?' post :D

We're still waiting on the F-35 here in The Netherlands. Incredibly expensive, but from the looks of it, it's also a very good multi task plane.

I rather it go back in my pocket :)

Rafael is the choice.