Defense circles in New Delhi are buzzing with anticipation as the Ministry of Defence eyes approval this week for acquiring 114 advanced Rafale combat aircraft from France, in a deal pegged at 3.25 lakh crore rupees. Aimed at fortifying the Indian Air Force, this procurement addresses critical squadron shortages and enhances deterrence.
The nod precedes Macron’s visit, after which the CCS under PM Modi will deliberate. Details outline direct import of 18 jets, with 96 built locally by Dassault and Indian partners, including two-seaters for training, alongside tech transfers to invigorate ‘Make in India’.
Complementing the IAF’s two operational Rafale squadrons (36 jets, final delivery Dec 2024), the Navy’s 26 ‘M’ variants (63,000 crore deal) will operate from Vikrant and Vikramaditya carriers, with integrated logistics, spares, and training.
Battle-tested in May’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ after Pahalgam terror strike, Rafales deployed SCALP missiles for deep strikes into Pakistan, showcasing 250+ km reach. Packed with Meteor AAMs, HAMMER smart bombs, SPECTRA EW systems, and active radars, they offer unmatched multirole flexibility.
June’s landmark MoUs with Tata ADS in Hyderabad pave the way for domestic production of vital airframe sections from 2028, streamlining deliveries, creating high-tech jobs, and deepening strategic Franco-Indian bonds. This deal heralds a new era of self-reliant defense aviation.