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Updated: Mar 05, 2016 13:05 IST

Defence minister Manohar Parrikar on Friday said that he is a “tough negotiator” and wants the “best price” for Rafale fighter jets from France.

However, the minister said the budget for next fiscal takes into account the Rafale deal for which “adequate money” has been kept aside.

“I am a tough negotiator. Let me save money for the nation,” Parrikar told reporters in Delhi when asked why the deal has not been signed yet.

Read | All you need to know about the Rafale jet deal

Stating that he was aware that the IAF needs the aircraft, the minister added “I think a good buyer does not put his weakness in front. He always keeps his cards close to his chest. Please don’t ask me to disclose my cards in national interest.”

“Many times it is better to cross the bridge when it comes”, Parrikar said on alternative available for the IAF if the Rafale deal does not go through.

Read | India, France sign Rafale jet deal, but talks on price to go on

The defence budget for the next fiscal takes into account the payments that will have to be made when the Rafale deal is signed, said Parrikar who had last month made it clear that the price of the aircraft was the only sticking point left in the agreement.

At least 15% of the total payment will have to be made immediately, if and when the deal is signed.

During French President Francois Hollande’s visit in January, India and France had inked an MoU for the purchase of 36 aircraft but persisting differences over the pricing came in the way of the multi-billion dollar deal being wrapped up. The deal is estimated to cost about Rs 59,000 crore.

Read | Rafale jet deal with India on right track: French President Hollande