IAF Rafale Jet Deal: No Compromise on Source Code or Indigenous Weapons

New Delhi: In the ongoing $36 billion deal for 114 multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA) or Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF), it has been confirmed that the transfer of source code is mandatory, with no room for compromise. The decision underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence technology.

Earlier, experts had raised concerns that if the source code was not transferred, the deal could prove costly in the long run. According to reports in The New Indian Express, the ongoing negotiations with the French company have now clarified that source code transfer will be part of the agreement. The procurement process is underway and is expected to be submitted soon to the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) for approval.

Use of Indigenous Weapons Ensured
The report also clarified that the 114 Rafale jets will be capable of integrating indigenous weapons whenever required. A source stated, “There will be no compromise on allowing Indian weapons to be integrated based on the Air Force’s operational requirements. Similarly, connectivity with other aircraft, even from different manufacturers, will be mandatory.”

Long-Term Strategic Value
Once the DAC approves the proposal, it will be sent to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for final approval, after which the deal will be finalized and pricing negotiations will begin. In the long term, these multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA) will operate alongside India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, the upcoming Tejas Mark-2, and the fifth-generation stealth Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

Critical Need for Fighter Jets
The IAF currently has fewer fighter jets than the numbers fixed in 2012. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is still developing both light and medium combat aircraft, which will take considerable time to complete. Relying solely on domestic projects in the interim is considered a security risk. Last October, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh had affirmed that Rafale is among the suitable fighter jets for India, emphasizing that meeting the Air Force’s operational requirements is the priority, regardless of the platform.