India is reportedly moving closer to a major deal worth around $35 billion to acquire 114 French-made Rafale fighter jets, with a large portion of the aircraft potentially being manufactured in India.
The proposed agreement could significantly expand India’s Rafale fleet while supporting the country’s efforts to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing.
France Offers Local Rafale Production
France has reportedly submitted a technical and commercial proposal for the 114 Rafale jets. Under the proposed arrangement, the first 20 aircraft would be supplied directly from France, while the remaining 94 could be manufactured in India with local industry participation.
The plan would make India an important production base for the Rafale and deepen defence cooperation between India and France.
French President Emmanuel Macron had earlier confirmed during his February 2026 visit to India that the proposed Rafale deal would include local manufacturing.
India Already Operates Rafale Jets
The Indian Air Force currently operates 36 Rafale fighter jets acquired from France.
India also signed a deal worth around $7.4 billion in April 2025 to purchase 26 Rafale Marine fighters for the Indian Navy. These aircraft are intended for carrier-based operations.
The latest proposal would therefore significantly increase the number of Rafale aircraft operated by India and strengthen its fighter fleet across the air force and navy.
India has also ruled out fresh purchases of Sukhoi fighter jets, including Russia’s Su-57, making the Rafale one of the key options for expanding its combat aircraft fleet.
Rafale Deal Could Boost Defence Manufacturing
The proposed production arrangement comes as India continues to promote local defence manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports.
Manufacturing 94 Rafales in India could create opportunities for Indian defence companies, suppliers and engineering firms while expanding the country’s capabilities in advanced aircraft production.
The deal could also provide a boost to France’s Rafale programme as Paris reassesses its future fighter strategy following difficulties surrounding its next-generation combat aircraft programme with Germany.
North Africa Also Seeks Advanced Fighters
India’s potential Rafale deal comes at a time when several North African countries are also modernising their air forces.
Egypt has already emerged as Africa’s largest Rafale operator. It initially ordered 24 Rafale fighters and later added another 30 aircraft, taking its planned fleet to 54.
Morocco is considering options for its next-generation fighter requirements, including the US-made F-35 and France’s Rafale. Reports have also linked Morocco to discussions over 12 to 18 Rafale F4 fighters as it looks to strengthen its existing fleet of US-made F-16s.
Algeria Chooses Russia
Algeria has taken a different approach by turning to Russia for its advanced fighter requirements.
The country has acquired the Su-57E and is set to become the first foreign customer for Russia’s fifth-generation fighter. The aircraft will join Algeria’s existing fleet of Russian-made fighters, including the Su-30.
Three Different Defence Paths
The developments highlight three different approaches to air force modernisation in North Africa. Egypt is expanding its Rafale fleet, Morocco is weighing French and American options, while Algeria has chosen Russia’s Su-57.
For India, the proposed Rafale agreement could become one of its biggest fighter aircraft purchases while also supporting local production, technology capabilities and the broader push for self-reliance in defence.
