India Moves Ahead On 114 Rafale Jet Deal
India has moved a step closer to acquiring 114 Rafale fighter jets from France after finalising a Letter of Request for the proposed government-to-government deal. The acquisition, estimated at around Rs 3.25 lakh crore, is aimed at strengthening the Indian Air Force’s combat capability.
India Rafale Fighter Jet Deal
The Letter of Request marks the beginning of the formal negotiation process with France for the purchase of 114 Dassault Rafale multi-role fighter aircraft. The deal is expected to cover pricing, delivery schedule, weapons package, maintenance support and technology-related arrangements.
The proposed purchase would be one of India’s biggest defence procurement programmes and comes as the Indian Air Force continues to face a shortage of fighter squadrons.
Make In India Rafale Manufacturing
A major part of the proposed deal is expected to be linked to domestic manufacturing. Around 94 to 96 Rafale jets may be produced in India through Dassault Aviation’s partnership with an Indian company, while 18 aircraft are expected to arrive in flyaway condition from France.
This structure is likely to support India’s Make in India defence push and expand domestic aerospace manufacturing capacity.
Indian Air Force Squadron Shortage
The Rafale acquisition is being pursued to address the Indian Air Force’s declining fighter strength. The IAF currently operates below its sanctioned squadron strength, creating pressure for faster induction of modern combat aircraft.
India already operates 36 Rafale jets bought under an earlier agreement with France. The new 114-aircraft proposal, if finalised, would significantly expand the Rafale fleet and strengthen India’s air power in the coming decade.
