India Advances Towards Historic ₹2 Lakh Crore Deal for 114 ‘Made in India’ Rafale Jets

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by

Himanshu
in ,

India is moving forward with a historic defense procurement proposal for 114 Rafale fighter jets, in collaboration with French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation. Valued at over ₹2 lakh crore, this initiative not only strengthens the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) operational capabilities but also aligns with the ‘Make in India’ policy, emphasizing domestic production and technological self-reliance.

The deal is under review by the Ministry of Defence, and if approved, it will mark one of the largest defense acquisitions in India’s history.

Overview of the Proposed Rafale Deal

ParameterDetails
Total Jets114 Rafale fighter jets
Estimated ValueOver ₹2 lakh crore
Indigenous ContentOver 60% produced in India
ManufacturersDassault Aviation (France) and Indian aerospace firms
Existing Fleet36 Rafale jets already in service with IAF
Additional Orders26 Rafale Marine jets for Indian Navy

Key Takeaways:

  • This acquisition will expand the IAF’s fleet significantly.
  • Domestic production will boost Make in India initiatives.
  • Strategic collaboration with French aerospace companies ensures advanced technology transfer.

Strategic Objectives

1. Boosting Indigenous Manufacturing

  • Over 60% of the components of these jets will be manufactured in India.
  • Enhances self-reliance in defense production.
  • Reduces dependence on foreign suppliers, supporting national security.

2. Enhancing Operational Capabilities

  • Advanced Rafale jets feature state-of-the-art avionics, weapons systems, and stealth technology.
  • Fleet expansion strengthens combat readiness and air dominance.

3. Job Creation & Technological Advancement

  • Collaboration with Indian firms is expected to generate thousands of jobs.
  • Technology transfer will foster innovation in the domestic defense sector.
  • Example: Safran Aerospace plans a new facility in Hyderabad for engine maintenance, creating 150 jobs initially, potentially expanding to 750 jobs.

Procurement Process

StepDescription
Ministry ReviewThe Defence Ministry reviews the proposal and assesses feasibility.
Defence Finance DivisionEvaluates financial implications of the deal.
Defence Procurement Board (DPB)Discusses technical and operational aspects of the proposal.
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)Chaired by Defence Minister for final approval.

Once approved, this deal will be a milestone in India’s defense modernization.

Broader Implications

AreaImpact
Bilateral TiesStrengthens India-France defense collaboration.
National SecurityEnhances India’s combat capabilities and strategic deterrence.
Defense IndustryEncourages domestic manufacturing and technology innovation.
EmploymentCreates skilled jobs across aerospace and defense sectors.

This deal also reinforces India’s blue-water capabilities, especially with the Rafale Marine jets for carrier operations.

FAQs

1. How many Rafale jets are being proposed in this deal?

  • The proposal is for 114 jets, with over 60% produced in India.

2. What is the estimated cost of the deal?

  • The deal is valued at over ₹2 lakh crore, making it one of the largest in Indian defense history.

3. How does this deal support ‘Make in India’?

  • More than 60% of components will be manufactured domestically, promoting self-reliance and indigenous technology development.

4. Will this improve India’s defense capabilities?

  • Yes, the addition of 114 advanced Rafale jets will significantly enhance combat readiness, operational flexibility, and air superiority.

5. Are there any additional orders for the Indian Navy?

  • Yes, 26 Rafale Marine jets have already been ordered for carrier-based operations.

6. When will the deal be finalized?

  • The proposal is under review, and it must pass through the Ministry of Defence, Defence Finance Division, DPB, and DAC before final approval.

7. What impact will this deal have on jobs in India?

  • The deal is expected to generate thousands of jobs in aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, and defense technology sectors.

Conclusion

The proposed ‘Made in India’ Rafale deal represents a major step forward in strengthening India’s defense capabilities, boosting domestic manufacturing, and fostering strategic international partnerships.

By combining advanced technology, domestic production, and skilled employment opportunities, this initiative embodies the vision of self-reliance in defense while preparing the IAF for future challenges.