India placed the (Rafale) order, primarily due to the IAF's 'critical operational necessity'. The complexity of the IAF's requirements delayed the process for months. It is these requirements which cannot be made public. Can you image Indian politicians publicly discussing the pros and the cons of such military equipment? It would provide India's enemies with indications about the IAF's tactical plans in case of a conflict. It is crucial that they should remain secret to protect India's defence preparedness, explains Claude Arpi.  Read the column here.