Dassault Aviation and TATA Group to Manufacture Rafale Fuselage in India

Dassault Aviation and the TATA Group firm, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), have signed 4 production transfer agreements to manufacture Rafale fighter aircraft fuselages in India. This is the first time Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. The facility is designed to serve both India's needs and the global market for medium multi-role combat aircraft.

Location and Output Plans

A new manufacturing facility will be set up by TASL in Hyderabad. It will be responsible for producing multiple parts of the Rafale’s fuselage, including the front section, central fuselage, rear section, and the lateral shells of the rear fuselage. Production is scheduled to begin in FY2027-28, with a target output of up to 2 complete fuselages per month.

Aircraft in Use and Orders

India currently operates 36 Rafale fighter jets. The Indian Navy is expected to induct 26 Rafale Marine jets by 2030. These are part of a ₹63,000 crore agreement signed with France in April 2025. The agreement also includes clauses for technology transfer and infrastructure development for local maintenance and production.

Statements from Companies

“For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale, and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements”, said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.

Dassault Aviation's contract signings demonstrate their significant dedication to India's 'Make in India' and AtmaNirbhar goals.

“This partnership aims to strengthen India’s position as a key player in the global aerospace supply chain while supporting its goal of greater economic self-reliance,” Dassault and TASL added.

Global Deployment

The Rafale is a 4.5-generation fighter aircraft in use or on order in several countries, including Egypt, Qatar, UAE, Greece, Indonesia, Croatia, and Serbia.

TASL's Role

TASL is already active in several aerospace segments, including aerostructures, aero-engines, and airborne platforms. It is also leading the final assembly of the Airbus C295 aircraft for the Indian Air Force.

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Conclusion

With this facility, India becomes the only country besides France to manufacture Rafale fuselages. The unit will support both Indian and global orders for the aircraft.

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