India Moves Closer to Historic Rafale Fighter Jets Acquisition
The Indian Air Force received a significant boost today as the Defence Procurement Board gave its formal clearance for acquiring 114 Rafale fighter jets. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh heads this crucial board that made the decision.
First Formal Step Toward Mega Defence Deal
This clearance represents the initial official movement toward finalizing what could become India's largest-ever defence acquisition. Multiple agency reports suggest the deal carries an estimated value of approximately Rs 3.25 lakh crore.
The proposal now advances to the Defence Acquisition Council for consideration. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chairs this important council. Final approval must come from the Cabinet Committee on Security, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads.
Timing Aligns with French President's Visit
The Defence Procurement Board's approval arrives just before French President Emmanuel Macron's scheduled visit to India next month. If subsequent approvals and price negotiations proceed smoothly, India and France might sign the agreement during President Macron's upcoming visit.
The procurement will follow an inter-governmental agreement framework. This approach ensures direct deliveries without involving any intermediaries between the two nations.
Made in India Component
Should the agreement reach completion, approximately 80% of these French combat aircraft could see production within India itself. The proposed project might involve shifting some manufacturing facilities from France to Indian locations.
The acquisition plan includes procuring 18 aircraft in ready-to-fly condition. The remaining jets would undergo manufacturing in India with indigenous content reaching up to 60%.
This development follows the Indian Air Force's formal proposal last year to the defence ministry. The proposal specifically requested 114 additional Rafale aircraft to strengthen India's aerial defence capabilities.
