Finally, the French military has given an official response! Regarding the incident of the Rafale fighter jet being shot down, on May 28th, Colonel Vernet, the spokesperson for the French military, stated in an interview that if this is indeed true, then this would be the first time a Rafale fighter jet has been damaged in actual combat, and France will draw lessons from it. However, many specific details cannot be confirmed at present, and France is maintaining close communication with India.
Clearly, this statement from the French side is somewhat evasive. For whether the Rafale fighter jet was actually shot down, the French side used the word "if." But the problem is that if the Rafale fighter jet was indeed shot down, this would be very unfavorable news for French arms sales. If it was not shot down, the French side should clarify as soon as possible. However, by neither confirming nor denying, they clearly seem to be covering up the facts.
However, some experts said that France is maintaining close communication with India, which might indicate both sides are closely handling follow-up matters. From France's perspective, France needs the final payment and to maintain the reputation of the Rafale fighter jets. From India's perspective, India needs to create the fact that the Rafale fighter jets were not shot down and eliminate the adverse effects of this incident.
As a remedial measure, France may very well deliver several additional Rafale fighter jets to India. Once the new fighters arrive, India can claim that no Rafale fighter jets are missing and display them openly, while France cooperates with India to recover the final payment and achieve a "win-win" situation. Therefore, we can fully understand why France is being stubborn. After all, if India refuses to admit it, isn't it embarrassing for France to acknowledge it, as it would be going against its own customer?
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1833348756079755/
Disclaimer: The article represents only the author's personal views.