Delhi, May 25: The Defence Ministry has prepared a formal proposal to procure 114 additional Rafale fighter jets from France to strengthen the Indian Air Force and expand indigenous defence manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.
Official sources said the proposal letter will be sent to the French government within the next few days. The proposed deal is expected to become one of India’s biggest military aviation procurements in recent years.
Under the plan, nearly 90 Rafale fighter jets will be manufactured in India through collaboration between France’s Dassault Aviation and an Indian defence partner. The remaining aircraft will be imported directly from France.
The Centre has reportedly insisted that at least 50 percent of the components and technology used in the aircraft should come from indigenous sources. Officials said India also wants a larger role for domestic companies in the production process.
Rafale Fighter Jets To Boost Air Force Strength
The Indian Air Force already operates 36 Rafale fighter jets acquired from France. In addition, the Indian Navy is moving ahead with procurement of 26 Rafale M aircraft for aircraft carrier operations.
Defence officials believe that inducting more Rafale jets will reduce operational and training costs because India already possesses maintenance facilities, pilot training systems and logistics infrastructure for the aircraft.
The Defence Acquisition Council has already granted preliminary approval for the procurement proposal. After receiving India’s formal request, France is expected to provide details regarding pricing, delivery timelines and logistics support.
Following those discussions, final negotiations will take place between both countries before the deal is placed before the Cabinet Committee on Security headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for final approval.
The proposed procurement is expected to significantly enhance India’s combat preparedness and strengthen long term defence cooperation between India and France.
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India Moves Ahead With Plan To Procure 114 More Rafale Fighter Jets
India plans to procure 114 more Rafale fighter jets from France under Make in India to strengthen Air Force capabilities.
