Key facts
- India's defence strategy prioritizes co-development, co-design, co-production, and co-manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative.
- Discussions with France regarding Rafale fighter jets aim to maximize local content and manufacturing.
- India has requested 114 Rafale jets from France in a deal estimated at Rs 3.25 lakh crore.
- A significant portion of the deal involves manufacturing Rafale jets in India by Dassault Aviation in partnership with an Indian firm.
- This agreement represents the first instance of Rafale aircraft production outside of France, with substantial localization planned.
India is advancing its 'Make in India' initiative in defence cooperation, aiming for co-development, co-design, co-production, and co-manufacturing, particularly in ongoing discussions with France for Rafale fighter jets. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that India's objective is to maximize local production and manufacturing for any defence platform under consideration.
This strategic approach was highlighted during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France, where he held bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron. India has issued a Letter of Request to France for a government-to-government deal worth approximately Rs 3.25 lakh crore to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force. As part of this deal, 94 of the jets are slated to be manufactured in India by Dassault Aviation in partnership with an Indian company.
The French side is expected to respond to the request within two to three months, with negotiations anticipated to conclude within the year. This agreement marks a significant step, as it will be the first time Rafale aircraft are manufactured outside France, with a target of around 50% localization. The program also allows for the integration of Indian weapons and systems. The first Rafale Marines are expected to be delivered in 2028, followed by Air Force Rafales approximately three-and-a-half years later, addressing the Indian Air Force's critical shortage of fighter aircraft squadrons.