India has formally requested France to supply 114 Rafale fighter jets in a deal worth ₹3.25 lakh crore, with 94 aircraft to be manufactured in India.
The Defence Ministry has sent the Letter of Request (LoR) to the French government. The proposal includes 114 multi-role fighter jets for the Indian Air Force under the Make in India framework.
Of the total, 20 jets will come in fly-away condition from France. The remaining 94 will be built in India through a joint venture or technology transfer arrangement with Dassault Aviation. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs and boost the domestic aerospace industry.
A senior defence official said the deal will significantly strengthen the Indian Air Force’s combat capability. The official added that local manufacturing will support long-term self-reliance in defence production.
The Rafale is a highly advanced multi-role fighter jet. It can perform air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft features advanced radar, electronic warfare systems, and long-range weapons.
The total deal value of ₹3.25 lakh crore covers the aircraft, weapons, training, and maintenance support. Deliveries are expected to begin within three to four years after the final contract is signed.
This acquisition forms part of India’s plan to modernise its air force and replace older fighter jets. The Indian Air Force currently operates 36 Rafale jets purchased in an earlier deal in 2016.
The proposed deal marks one of the largest defence contracts in India’s history. It highlights the growing strategic partnership between India and France and reinforces the country’s commitment to building a strong domestic defence manufacturing base through technology transfer and joint production.
