Deal for jets possible in Modi's first France trip

Discussions underway, but an Indian official calls contract announcement 'a bit of hype'

India was aiming to make a deal to buy 63 French-made Rafale fighter jets for $7.7 billion during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Paris, which began on Friday, Le Monde newspaper reported.

Indian officials confirmed that a major push was on to reach an agreement to buy the jets during the visit, with one holding out the prospect of an announcement, if not a final deal, should India secure more favorable terms.