India's Defence Ministry to Deliberate on Massive Rafale Jet Acquisition Proposal
The Ministry of Defence in India is poised to engage in crucial discussions regarding the monumental ₹3.25 lakh crore proposal to procure 114 Rafale fighter jets from France. These high-level deliberations are scheduled for next week, strategically timed ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron's official visit to New Delhi in the third week of February.
Critical Meeting for Indian Air Force Operational Needs
According to reports from the news agency ANI, citing authoritative defence ministry sources, the proposal is expected to be taken up for detailed discussion at a significant meeting within the defence ministry. This meeting is viewed as critically important for addressing the operational requirements of the Indian Air Force, especially considering the current security dynamics and challenges in the region.
The proposal to purchase these 114 Rafale jets by the Indian Air Force received its initial approval from the Defence Procurement Board last month. This substantial deal is anticipated to fulfill the IAF's pressing need for advanced 4.5-generation-plus multi-role fighter aircraft, thereby significantly enhancing its squadron strength and combat capabilities.
Addressing Squadron Strength and Domestic Manufacturing
Currently, the Indian Air Force operates approximately 30 fighter aircraft squadrons, which is substantially below its officially sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons. The acquisition of these Rafale jets is expected to help bridge this gap and bolster India's aerial defence posture.
Beyond military readiness, the ₹3.25 lakh crore proposal is projected to provide a substantial boost to the domestic economy. A remarkable aspect of this deal is that around 80% of the 114 Rafale jets are planned to be manufactured within India, promoting indigenous production and technological collaboration.
Detailed Specifications and Fleet Expansion Plans
ANI, referencing defence ministry sources, further reported specific details about the proposed acquisition. The Indian Air Force is eyeing a configuration of 88 single-seater jets and 26 twin-seater jets under this ambitious project. The majority of these aircraft will be constructed in India through a collaborative effort between Dassault Aviation, the French aerospace company, and various Indian private sector firms.
Upon successful completion of this deal, the Indian Air Force will operate a formidable fleet of 150 Rafale jets. Additionally, the Indian Navy is set to acquire 26 aircraft carrier-compatible versions of these advanced French fighter planes, enhancing maritime air power.
Emmanuel Macron's Upcoming Visit to India
French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed in January that he would be visiting India to participate in the inaugural global AI summit hosted in the Global South. The India-AI Impact Summit 2026, which was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the France AI Action Summit, is scheduled to take place on 19-20 February in New Delhi.
As per ANI reports, President Macron is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on 18 February, setting the stage for high-level diplomatic engagements and potentially significant defence discussions alongside the AI summit.
