The Indian Ministry of Defence is pushing to finalize a significant procurement deal for 114 Rafale multi-role fighter jets by the close of the current financial year. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh confirmed that the formal evaluation of bids under the Request for Proposal (RFP) stage is actively underway, marking a crucial step in bolstering the Indian Air Force's operational capabilities.
This ambitious acquisition is designed as a "Buy and Make" program, emphasizing local assembly and substantial indigenous systems integration. Secretary Singh highlighted that this approach goes beyond previous procurements, aiming for the bulk of the aircraft to be assembled within India, incorporating Indian weapons and technologies.
Boosting Air Force Strength
The urgency behind this deal stems from the Indian Air Force's critical need to enhance its fighter squadron strength, which currently falls significantly short of the sanctioned requirement of 42 squadrons. The addition of 114 Rafale jets would represent a substantial increase in combat power, building upon the 36 Rafales already in service with the IAF and the 26 Rafale Marine jets ordered for naval aircraft carriers.
The procurement is also set to establish a second domestic production line for advanced fighter aircraft in India, complementing the existing capabilities of state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This initiative underscores India's broader strategy to enhance self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Parallel Domestic Aviation Initiatives
Alongside the foreign acquisition, the Defence Ministry is maintaining strict timelines for several domestic aviation projects. Progress continues on the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas program, with HAL anticipated to deliver at least one operational squadron of the LCA Mk1A by the end of the year, following the arrival of long-awaited GE engines.
Furthermore, the larger LCA Mk2 project remains on schedule, with its first flight trials targeted for mid-2027. These domestic programs are considered vital pillars in India's long-term aerospace roadmap, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign imports and foster indigenous technological advancements.