Rafale: India Sends Formal Request for 114 Jets Worth 33 Billion Euros

A Significant Formal Step for Dassault

India has sent France a formal request letter for the acquisition of 114 Rafale jets. This move marks an official advancement in the negotiations between New Delhi and Paris, though it does not yet signify the signing of a definitive contract. The French government will have two to three months to formulate its response, with a final agreement anticipated next year. This potential order would amount to 33 billion euros, making it one of the largest Rafale armament acquisitions ever concluded. The timing coincides with the expected visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to France in mid-June for the G7.

Renewal of the Indian Air Fleet

The Indian Air Force currently has fewer than 30 squadrons, compared to a target of more than 40. The phasing out of the MiG-21 and the scheduled retirements of some MiG-29, Jaguar, and Mirage 2000 aircraft underscore the need for fleet renewal. The Indian Air Force and Navy have already ordered 62 Rafales. With the additional 114 jets under consideration, the total would reach 176 aircraft. The Indian Navy is also contemplating the acquisition of up to 31 additional jets, potentially pushing the total beyond 200 aircraft.

Assembly in India at the Heart of Negotiations

New Delhi is requesting that over 90 Rafales be assembled or manufactured in India, as part of its 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' self-reliance industrial strategy. Dassault has already established local partnerships, including with Tata in Hyderabad and Hical for precision parts. This acquisition would strengthen France's position as a major armament supplier to India, in a context where Russian influence is declining in this market. It would also consolidate the strategic position of Dassault and the French defense industry in South Asia.