India’s Defence Procurement Board approves proposal to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets from France, strengthening Indian Air Force combat power, boosting indigenous aerospace manufacturing, and advancing strategic defence cooperation under the Make in India initiative.
In a major step toward strengthening India’s aerial combat capabilities, the Defence Procurement Board (DPB) has approved a proposal to acquire 114 additional Rafale fighter jets from French aerospace major Dassault Aviation. The approval marks a significant milestone in India’s long-term military modernization strategy and comes amid growing regional security challenges.
According to defence sources, the proposal will now be placed before the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), which is chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, for further consideration. Once cleared by the DAC, the proposal is expected to move to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for final approval.
The acquisition of 114 Rafale jets is expected to significantly enhance the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force (IAF), which has been facing a steady decline in squadron strength due to the retirement of aging aircraft. The IAF had formally submitted the proposal to the Defence Ministry last year, highlighting the urgent need for advanced multi-role fighter aircraft to maintain air superiority.
Strategic Importance of the Rafale Deal
The Rafale fighter jet is considered one of the most advanced multi-role combat aircraft in the world. Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, advanced radar systems, and precision-guided weapons, the aircraft is capable of performing air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and nuclear deterrence missions. The induction of additional Rafale jets is expected to provide a decisive edge to the Indian Air Force across multiple operational theatres.
Defence analysts believe that the acquisition aligns with India’s broader strategic objectives, particularly in strengthening deterrence capabilities along its northern and western borders. The deal also reinforces India’s long-standing defence partnership with France, which has emerged as one of New Delhi’s most reliable strategic allies in the defence sector.
Inter-Governmental Agreement and Timelines
The proposed procurement will be executed through an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA), ensuring transparency and eliminating the involvement of intermediaries. According to sources, India and France could sign the final agreement as early as next month, subject to the completion of the remaining approval process.
The structure of the deal is expected to follow a government-to-government framework similar to earlier Rafale contracts, providing assurances on pricing, delivery schedules, and maintenance support. Such an arrangement is also aimed at expediting deliveries and avoiding procedural delays.
Boost to Indigenous Manufacturing
A key highlight of the Rafale expansion plan is the growing emphasis on indigenous manufacturing and technology transfer. In June, Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) signed four major production transfer agreements to manufacture key sections of the Rafale aircraft in India.
Under this collaboration, Tata Advanced Systems will establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Hyderabad, dedicated to producing critical structural components of the Rafale fuselage. These include the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front fuselage section.
The first fuselage sections are expected to roll off the production line in FY2028, with the facility having the capacity to manufacture up to two complete fuselages per month. This development marks a significant advancement in India’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem and supports the government’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives.
Navy Rafale-M Deal Sets the Precedent
The current proposal follows a landmark agreement signed in April last year, under which India agreed to procure 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets for the Indian Navy at a cost of approximately Rs 63,000 crore. The deal includes 22 single-seater jets and four twin-seater trainer aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to be completed by 2031.
The naval Rafale jets are intended to operate from India’s aircraft carriers, significantly enhancing maritime strike capabilities and strengthening naval air power in the Indian Ocean Region.
Long-Term Impact on Defence Preparedness
Once approved, the acquisition of 114 Rafale jets will be among the largest fighter aircraft deals in India’s defence history. Experts note that the deal will not only address immediate operational gaps but also ensure long-term force readiness, technology infusion, and industrial growth.
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With geopolitical uncertainties on the rise and rapid advancements in aerial warfare, the Rafale expansion is expected to play a crucial role in securing India’s airspace and reinforcing its position as a major regional power.
