The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) plan to acquire 114 ‘Made in India’ Rafale jets marks one of the country’s biggest defence procurement projects ever, with an estimated value of ₹2 lakh crore. Beyond numbers, the deal holds strategic, industrial, and geopolitical significance.
Why Rafale Again?
The IAF already operates 36 Rafales, proven in combat and most recently in Operation Sindoor, where they reportedly outperformed advanced Chinese PL-15 missiles using the Spectra electronic warfare suite. Adding 114 more would push India’s Rafale fleet strength to 176, making it the backbone of the Air Force alongside Su-30 MKIs and the upcoming LCA Mk1A.
‘Made in India’ Push
Unlike the earlier government-to-government deals, this time the jets will be manufactured in India in partnership with local firms like Tata, ensuring more than 60% indigenous content. This aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) drive, boosting local aerospace capability while creating jobs.
The proposed MRO hub in Hyderabad for Rafale’s M-88 engines will also reduce dependence on foreign servicing and improve long-term operational readiness.
Strategic Angle
The deal strengthens India’s deterrence posture against both Pakistan and China. With longer-range missiles than the Scalp used in the Balakot strikes, the upgraded Rafales would give the IAF deep-strike and superior air dominance capability.
At the same time, this acquisition would bridge the gap until the indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet (AMCA) is ready post-2035.
Challenges & Considerations
- Cost Factor: At ₹2 lakh crore, it’s one of the largest defence deals ever. Balancing budget allocations for Rafales, indigenous programs, and other military modernisation is key.
- Technology Transfer: The level of real tech-sharing from Dassault will be closely watched.
- Timeline: Large-scale local production of high-end fighter jets could face delays, testing India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
- Geopolitics: Deepening ties with France adds weight to India’s European partnerships, balancing its reliance on Russian and U.S. defence suppliers.
Big Picture
If approved, the Rafale 114 deal could reshape India’s air power for the next two decades, secure jobs for the domestic defence industry, and reinforce the country’s self-reliance mission. However, the sheer size of the project and its execution risks mean close monitoring will be essential.
