Arriving with the Defence Ministry for a Milestone Acquisition. The Defence Ministry plans to debate one of the world’s largest defence procurement contracts in recent years — the purchase of 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF) ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to India. The deal, worth about ₹3.25 lakh crore, reflects India’s drive to boost its aerial combat capabilities and to strengthen strategic defence ties with France. Details of Purchase Proposed.
The proposed package consists of 88 single-seater Rafale jets and 26 twin-seater variants, suited to the operation of the IAF. The Rafale, which offers complex avionics and multi-role combatability, with proven results across a variety of local theatres, will markedly enhance India’s air supremacy within the region. Strategic Significance. Earlier under an earlier deal, India had inducted 36 Rafale jets which have already been deployed on key bases including Ambala and Hasimara. The new acquisition, if complete, would constitute a massive increase of the fleet, safeguarding against new threats.
Defence experts highlight the timing of the discussion illustrates a growing India–France defence partnership as we stand at a crossroads in terms of regional security challenges on one hand and challenges on the other. Looking Ahead. Even as negotiations still run late, that deal is a landmark in India’s defence modernization journey in terms of scale and scope.
The talks in Macron's country will perhaps set the stage for final approvals, the two countries keen to further convey their commitment to strategic cooperation. The IAF’s decision to increase the presence of 114 Rafales will be a decisive jump in its combat supremacy and will bolster India as one of the regional strategic air power.
