India has officially initiated the procurement process for 114 Rafale fighter jets from France, in a landmark defence deal estimated at around ₹3.25 lakh crore. The move represents one of the largest military acquisitions in the country’s history and a major expansion of its air combat capabilities.
Government-to-Government Process Begins
According to defence ministry sources cited by ANI, the Ministry of Defence’s Acquisition Wing has issued a Letter of Request (LoR) to the French government. This formally kicks off the government-to-government negotiation process for the proposed deal.
France is expected to respond within two to three months, with final negotiations likely to conclude within a year.
Part of India’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft Programme
The acquisition is part of the Indian Air Force’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) programme, designed to address a growing shortfall in combat aircraft strength.
The IAF currently operates 36 Rafale jets acquired under the 2016 India-France agreement. However, its fighter squadron strength has dropped to around 29, well below the sanctioned requirement of 42.5 squadrons.
Major Push for Domestic Manufacturing
A significant portion of the aircraft is expected to be manufactured in India under the Make in India framework. The deal involves collaboration between Dassault Aviation and an Indian industry partner.
Officials indicate that around 90 to 94 jets may be built domestically, while the rest will be delivered directly from France. The programme is expected to achieve close to 50 percent localisation, marking a major step in defence manufacturing capability.
First Rafale Production Outside France
If finalised, this would be the first time the Rafale fighter jet is manufactured outside France. The agreement is also expected to enable integration of Indian weapons and systems into the platform, enhancing operational flexibility and self-reliance.
Officials have emphasised that the procurement will follow a transparent government-to-government route with no intermediaries involved.
Strategic Timing and Diplomatic Context
The development comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected visit to France in mid-June. It also coincides with the visit of Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh to France, where discussions with defence officials and Dassault facilities are scheduled.
Strengthening India’s Air Power
The proposed Rafale expansion is expected to significantly strengthen India’s air combat capabilities at a time when the IAF faces a persistent squadron shortage. The deal is being viewed as a critical step in modernising the force and bridging long-term capability gaps.
