India Considers ₹2 Lakh Crore Deal for 114 Made-in-India Rafale Jets
The Indian Defence Ministry is reviewing a proposal to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets under a 'Made in India' model, valued at over ₹2 lakh crore. The Indian Air Force has submitted a Statement of Case for the acquisition. If approved, Dassault Aviation would produce the aircraft in collaboration with Indian firms, with over 60% domestic content. The deal could bring India's total Rafale fleet to 176 aircraft, including existing and Navy orders. Dassault proposes establishing an MRO hub in Hyderabad for Rafale engines. The India-built versions are expected to have enhanced strike capabilities.
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The Indian Defence Ministry is currently reviewing a substantial proposal to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets under a 'Made in India' model. This potential deal, valued at over ₹2 lakh crore, marks a significant step in India's efforts to modernize its air force while boosting domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Key Points of the Proposal
- The Indian Air Force has submitted a Statement of Case for the acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter jets.
- The proposal is under scrutiny by various wings of the Defence Ministry, including Defence Finance.
- If approved, the aircraft would be produced by French company Dassault Aviation in collaboration with domestic aerospace firms.
- Over 60% of the content would be manufactured in India, aligning with the country's 'Make in India' initiative.
Potential Impact on India's Air Force
The acquisition, if approved, would significantly bolster India's air power:
- It would add to India's current fleet of 36 Rafales.
- Combined with the 26 Rafales already ordered by the Navy, this could bring India's total Rafale fleet to 176 aircraft.
Industrial Collaboration and Technology Transfer
Dassault Aviation has proposed establishing a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) hub in Hyderabad for the M-88 engines that power the Rafale jets. This move could enhance India's aerospace capabilities and create a robust support infrastructure for the fleet.
Strategic Considerations
The proposal follows Operation Sindoor, where Rafales demonstrated superiority over Chinese PL-15 missiles using their Spectra electronic warfare system. This performance has likely influenced the decision to consider expanding India's Rafale fleet.
Enhanced Capabilities
The India-built versions of the Rafale are expected to be armed with longer-range air-to-ground missiles than the current Scalp missiles, potentially increasing the aircraft's strike capabilities.
Conclusion
This review of the ₹2 lakh crore deal for 114 Made-in-India Rafale fighter jets represents a significant development in India's defence strategy. If approved, it would not only enhance the country's air defence capabilities but also provide a substantial boost to the domestic aerospace industry. The deal's progress will be closely watched by defence analysts and industry observers alike.
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