India’s Ministry of Defence has officially begun reviewing a record-setting proposal to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF), with a deal valued at approximately 2 trillion rupees (around $24 billion USD). Officials stated that the proposal will be discussed by the Defence Acquisition Council in the coming weeks, with a final decision expected from the Defence Procurement Board.
Defense sources note that, if approved, the acquisition would represent one of the largest defense investments under India’s “Made in India” initiative.
Operational Capability and Technical Upgrades
Rafale jets gained attention from the IAF during last year’s Operation Sindoor, demonstrating superior performance against Chinese PL-15 missiles. Under the new acquisition plan, the aircraft are expected to be equipped with advanced Spectra electronic warfare systems and long-range precision strike munitions.
Dassault Aviation also plans to establish maintenance and production infrastructure in India for the Rafale’s M-88 engines. This move is seen as a strategic step to enhance the nation’s defense industrial capabilities.
Air Force Modernization Goals
IAF officials indicated that the new Rafale jets, integrated with existing Su-30 MKI and Tejas Mark 1A platforms, would provide India with regional air superiority. Furthermore, the program is expected to contribute critical technological expertise toward future fifth-generation fighter development.
