Defence
Rafale – M
- The Ministry of Defence granted approval for the acquisition of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets and three Scorpene diesel-electric submarines from France.
- This paves the way for the official announcement of these two significant deals at the Modi-Macron summit.
- The proposed inter-governmental agreement for the Rafale-M fighters includes the purchase of 22 single-seat jets and four twin-seat trainers, along with associated equipment, weapons, simulators, spares, crew training, and logistic support.
Rafale M vs Rafale:
| Feature | Rafale M | Rafale |
| Airframe | Strengthened for carrier landings | Standard airframe |
| Wing | Foldable | Non-foldable |
| Tailhook | Yes | No |
| Radar | Maritime-optimized | Standard radar |
| Weapons | Wider range of weapons, including antiship missiles | Standard range of weapons |
| Mission | Carrier operations | Air superiority, ground attack, air-to-air refueling |
Eminent Persons
Kamala Harrish
- US Vice-President Kamala Harris made history again when she cast her 31st tiebreaking vote in the US Senate, tying the record set by John C Calhoun.
- Harris already holds the distinction of being the first woman/person of colour to serve as the US vice-president.
- According to the US Constitution, the vice-president also serves as the president of the Senate. In this capacity, he or she may cast the deciding vote when there is a tie in the Senate.
Note
- Interestingly, current US President Joe Biden, who served as a vice-president during the Barack Obama’s presidency, did not cast a single tiebreaking vote.
