IAF's Proposal for 114 Made-in-India Rafale Jets, Valued at ₹2 Lakh Crore, Under Revi

India’s defence modernisation drive could soon reach a milestone as the Ministry of Defence examines a proposal to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets, as per news reports. Estimated at over ₹2 lakh crore, the plan aims to bring production to Indian soil under the ‘Made in India’ framework, with French firm Dassault Aviation partnering with domestic aerospace companies.

Ministry Review and Procurement Pathway

According to ANI, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has already filed a Statement of Case for the acquisition. The proposal is undergoing scrutiny across multiple arms of the ministry, including Defence Finance. 

Following inter-ministerial checks, the matter will advance to the Defence Procurement Board, chaired by the Defence Secretary, before eventually being placed before the Defence Acquisition Council.

Fleet Expansion

If approved, the Rafale programme would significantly enlarge India’s frontline fleet. The IAF currently operates 36 Rafales, with another 26 ordered by the Navy, taking the potential future tally to 176 aircraft. 

Industrial Impact and Future Planning

The project stipulates that more than 60% of the aircraft’s content be manufactured in India. Dassault has proposed creating a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul hub in Hyderabad to support the Rafale’s M-88 engines. The company already operates a service unit for French-origin aircraft in India, while domestic partners such as Tata are expected to play central roles in local production. 

Read More: GST on Drones Slashed to 5% to Boost ‘Make in India’ Drive!

Conclusion

With India’s air power facing increasing regional challenges, the ₹2 lakh crore Rafale proposal represents more than just a procurement exercise. By mandating local production and expanding frontline capacity, the plan could cement the Rafale’s role in the nation’s long-term defence strategy, while reinforcing the IAF’s readiness for future threats.

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