New Delhi: In a first, French soldiers are all set to march down the Rajpath on Republic Day along with Indian troops in the presence of French President Francois Hollande, who is the chief guest for this year’s celebrations, even as a high-level team from France is in the capital to give final touches to the government-to-government framework agreement for 36 Rafale fighter jets that is likely to be signed later his month before or during the visit.
Government sources were cited by news agency reports as saying that a contingent of French soldiers would be participating in the Republic Day celebrations. This is the first time when a foreign army contingent would be marching down the Rajpath along with Indian troops as part of the Republic Day celebrations. Incidentally, a French contingent comprising 56 personnel of 35th Infantry Regiment of 7th Armoured Brigade is already in the country to take part in a joint exercise which began in Rajasthan on Friday.
Some soldiers will also fly down from France to form a proper marching contingent, the sources said. The French soldiers are taking part in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency joint exercise called “Shakti 2016.” The 35th Infantry Regiment’s origin dates back to its raising in 1604 at Lorraine, France.
The regiment has as many as 12 battle honours to its credit. The battalion has varied combat experiences, having served in Algeria, Africa, Iraq and Afghanistan, amongst other places. Meanwhile, French defence minister Jean-Yves Le Drian is set to visit India ahead of Republic Day but dates have not been finalised yet.
Defence sources said that the agreement, which will pave the way for a final contract, is likely to be signed ahead of French President Hollande’s visit. “A high-level French government team is in town to finalise the agreement and also discuss future scope of military cooperation,” sources said.
If all goes well, the final contract for 36 Rafales is expected to be inked soon, which will come as a major relief for the Indian Air Force which wants quick induction of more fighter aircraft.
