New Delhi: In a major defence development ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron’s upcoming visit to India, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the requirement for the Indian Air Force to procure 114 Rafale fighter jets. The move is being seen as a significant strategic step that further strengthens India’s military capabilities and deepens defence cooperation between India and France.
For the first time, the Ministry of Defence has officially confirmed that the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) requirement of the Indian Air Force will be fulfilled through the Rafale platform. Until now, the MRFA project was discussed broadly, without officially naming the aircraft that would be selected.
₹3.60 Lakh Crore Defence Proposals Cleared
The DAC meeting, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved multiple military procurement proposals worth approximately ₹3.60 lakh crore under the “Acceptance of Necessity” (AoN) category.
According to the Ministry of Defence, approvals were granted for the procurement of:
- 114 Rafale multi-role fighter aircraft
- Combat missiles for the Indian Air Force
- Airship-based High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (AS-HAPS) systems
The ministry stated that the Rafale procurement would significantly boost the Air Force’s ability to achieve air dominance in various conflict scenarios and enhance long-range precision strike capability, thereby strengthening India’s overall deterrence posture.
Most Rafale Jets to be Built in India
In a strong push towards self-reliance, the Defence Ministry confirmed that a majority of the Rafale fighter jets will be manufactured in India, marking another key step under the government’s “Make in India” initiative in the defence sector.
Combat Missiles and Advanced Surveillance Systems Approved
The DAC also approved the procurement of combat missiles, which will enhance India’s ability to conduct deep, accurate strikes over long distances. Meanwhile, the AS-HAPS system will be used for continuous military operations such as:
- Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR)
- Electronic intelligence gathering
- Remote sensing
- Telecommunications support
Army Gets Nod for Anti-Tank Mines and Vehicle Overhauls
For the Indian Army, approval was granted for the acquisition of anti-tank mines known as ‘Vibhav’, which are intended to slow down or stop enemy mechanised forces. In addition, the DAC cleared the overhaul and upgrades of key platforms including:
- Armoured Recovery Vehicles (ARV)
- T-72 tanks
- BMP-II infantry combat vehicles
These upgrades are expected to extend the service life of the equipment and enhance the Army’s operational readiness.
Navy Approved to Acquire Six P-8I Aircraft
The Indian Navy also received clearance to procure six P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft, which are crucial for strengthening:
- Anti-submarine warfare capability
- Maritime surveillance
- Long-range strike missions
The P-8I fleet will also boost India’s monitoring capabilities across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Additional Procurement for Coast Guard
The DAC further approved the procurement of electro-optical and infrared systems for Dornier aircraft used by the Indian Coast Guard, enhancing maritime patrol and surveillance efficiency.
Strategic Significance
The approval for 114 Rafale fighter jets is being viewed as a game-changing move in India’s defence modernization programme. The announcement ahead of President Macron’s visit signals a deepening of India-France strategic ties and is expected to significantly shift the balance of air power in the region.
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