Defence Ministry Reviews IAF's Proposal for 114 'Made in India' Rafale Fighter Jets

The Indian Ministry of Defence has commenced deliberations on a significant proposal from the Indian Air Force (IAF) to procure 114 'Made in India' Rafale fighter jets. This initiative aims to bolster India's air combat capabilities and promote indigenous defense manufacturing.

The proposal, valued at over ₹2 lakh crore, outlines plans for the construction of these advanced aircraft within India, in collaboration with French aerospace manufacturer Dassault Aviation. Notably, the project is expected to incorporate more than 60% indigenous content, aligning with India's 'Make in India' initiative.

Once approved, this acquisition would significantly enhance the IAF's fleet, increasing the number of Rafale aircraft to 176. Currently, the IAF has inducted 36 Rafale jets, and the Indian Navy has placed orders for 26 naval variants, with deliveries scheduled for completion by 2030. The proposed deal would thus represent a substantial expansion of India's Rafale fleet.

The proposal is currently under review by various departments within the Ministry of Defence, including the Defence Finance division. Following internal discussions, the proposal is expected to be presented to the Defence Procurement Board (DPB) and, subsequently, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) for final approval.

This move comes in the wake of the Rafale's commendable performance during Operation Sindoor, where it effectively neutralized threats from advanced Chinese PL-15 air-to-air missiles using its Spectra electronic warfare system. The new batch of 'Made in India' Rafales is anticipated to feature enhanced capabilities, including longer-range air-to-ground missiles, surpassing the existing Scalp missiles.

In addition to the aircraft acquisition, the French side plans to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility for the Rafale's M-88 engines in Hyderabad. This facility is expected to support both Indian and global markets, further strengthening the domestic defense infrastructure.

The proposed deal underscores India's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities through indigenous production and international collaboration. If finalized, it would mark a significant milestone in India's defense procurement history.

As the proposal progresses through the necessary approval channels, it is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of India's air defense strategy.