New Delhi: In a major move to further strengthen India’s airspace security, the Government of India is set to procure 114 additional Rafale fighter aircraft, marking one of the largest defence deals in the country’s history.
The landmark agreement, valued at approximately ₹3.25 lakh crore, is expected to be signed next month during the India visit of French President Emmanuel Macron. Notably, the deal will be concluded as a government-to-government agreement, with no involvement of intermediaries.
Key highlights of the proposed Rafale deal
Under the agreement, 114 Rafale fighter jets will be inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF). In a significant boost to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, nearly 80 per cent of the aircraft will be manufactured in India. Of these, around 60 per cent of the components will be sourced domestically, reinforcing India’s push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The contract предусматривает the direct delivery of the first 18 aircraft by 2030, while the remaining jets will be produced in India in a phased manner. The large-scale localisation of production is expected to enhance indigenous capabilities and generate substantial employment and industrial growth in the defence sector.
The Indian Air Force currently operates 36 Rafale fighter jets. The induction of 114 additional aircraft will significantly enhance the IAF’s combat strength, enabling it to meet the demands of modern aerial warfare and evolving security challenges.
Approvals in the final stage
The proposal, initially submitted by the Indian Air Force last year, has already received approval from the Defence Procurement Board (DPB), chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The recommendation is set to be taken up shortly by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
Following this, the deal will require final clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by the Prime Minister. Once approved, the agreement will formally pave the way for the largest-ever induction of Rafale fighter aircraft into the Indian Air Force.
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