New Delhi: India is moving closer to one of the largest fighter aircraft acquisitions in its history, with plans to procure 114 additional Rafale fighter jets from France. The development comes as Indian Air Force Chief Amar Preet Singh undertakes a four day visit to France, where key discussions on defence cooperation and aircraft procurement are expected to take place.
According to official sources, India has already submitted a formal proposal to the French government for the purchase of the advanced multirole fighters. France is expected to provide details regarding pricing, production schedules, and logistical support within the next few months. Formal negotiations are likely to follow, with both sides aiming to conclude the deal within the coming year.
The Air Force Chief’s visit is being viewed as strategically significant. During his stay, he is expected to engage with senior officials from Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of the Rafale, and MBDA, which produces advanced weapon systems such as the Meteor and SCALP missiles. Discussions are expected to cover not only aircraft acquisition but also technology transfer, local manufacturing, and integration of Indian systems.
The proposed purchase is driven by a pressing operational requirement. The Indian Air Force currently operates 29 fighter squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42. The retirement of ageing aircraft, including the MiG-21 fleet, has widened this gap, prompting the search for new combat platforms capable of meeting future security challenges.
A major feature of the proposed agreement is its focus on domestic manufacturing. Defence officials are exploring a model under which 94 of the 114 aircraft would be produced in India through a partnership between Dassault Aviation and an Indian company. The project is expected to include around 50 percent localisation, allowing Indian-made systems and weapons to be incorporated into the aircraft.
India already operates 36 Rafale fighters stationed at air bases in Ambala and Hasimara. With the recently concluded deal for 26 Rafale-M jets for the Navy and the proposed purchase of 114 more aircraft, India’s Rafale fleet could eventually grow to 176 fighters, significantly strengthening the country’s air combat capabilities across multiple fronts.
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