A pivotal boost to India’s combat aviation arrived today as the Defence Procurement Board approved the purchase of 114 Rafale fighter aircraft. Pegged at Rs 2 lakh crore-plus, the deal promises to revitalize the Indian Air Force’s depleting assets.
Background: The IAF currently operates just 36 Rafales from a prior deal, proving their mettle in exercises and operations. Scaling up to 150 total jets addresses sanctioned strength shortfalls amid threats from two fronts.
The board’s recommendation emphasizes cost-effectiveness, with lifecycle costs factored in alongside performance. Negotiators secured favourable terms on spares, training, and infrastructure.
Local angle: Over 50% of the contract value will flow back through offsets, involving DRDO, public sector units, and MSMEs. This aligns with Vocal for Local campaigns in defence manufacturing.
Strategic context reveals urgency—neighbouring air forces are inducting fifth-gen platforms while India bridges the gap with 4.5-gen Rafales. Integration with AMCA projects ensures a seamless transition.
Stakeholders from industry to uniformed services hail the move as visionary. Final hurdles cleared, India marches towards aerial supremacy, ready for any contingency.