French aerospace major Dassault Aviation and India’s Tata Advanced Systems Limited have signed four agreements to jointly manufacture the fuselage of Rafale fighter aircraft in India that will mark production of the critical component for the first time outside France. It is a significant step forward in strengthening the country’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities and supporting global supply chains.
A joint press release issued by the companies said, the facility represents a significant investment in India’s aerospace infrastructure and will serve as a critical hub for high-precision manufacturing. Under the partnership, Tata Advanced Systems will set up a cutting-edge production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the Rafale aircraft. As per the deal, the first fuselage sections are expected to roll off the assembly line in 2028. The facility is expected to deliver up to two complete fuselages per month.
French Ambassador to India, Thierry Mathou welcomed the historic partnership between two companies to manufacture Rafale fuselages in India. In a social media post, Mr Mathou called it a milestone in strategic partnership, reaffirming France’s support for Make In India Initiative, Atmanirbhar Bharat and global aerospace supply chains.
Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, Eric Trappier, said that this is the first time Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. The Chief Executive Officer and managing director of Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Sukaran Singh, said that the partnership marks a significant step in India’s aerospace journey.
