The Indian Air Force (IAF) has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a comprehensive five-month bridge support package, explicitly covering all 36 Rafale fighter aircraft acquired from France. This tender, issued in June, serves as a strong rebuttal to Pakistan's persistent claims that several of these advanced jets were shot down during military operations.
Tender Confirms Full Fleet Operational Status
The RFP, accessed by India Today, seeks bids for maintenance, logistics, and technical support for the entire Rafale fleet beyond September 2026. This bridge arrangement is designed to ensure uninterrupted operations until a long-term support contract is finalized. Crucially, the proposal is based on an estimated 2,250 flying hours during the five-month period and assumes the full availability and operational readiness of all 36 Rafale aircraft.
This official document directly contradicts Pakistan's assertions, made through official statements and social media campaigns, that multiple Indian Rafale fighters were destroyed during 'Operation Sindoor'—India's military response to a terrorist attack. India has consistently dismissed these claims as disinformation and propaganda aimed at undermining the IAF's mission success.
Previous Evidence and Rafales' Role
The latest tender adds to a growing body of evidence that has previously cast doubt on Pakistan's claims. Earlier, several Rafale aircraft whose tail numbers were circulated online as allegedly destroyed were later photographed participating in active operational flying activities, further discrediting the false narratives.
During Operation Sindoor, the Rafale fleet played a critical role, executing precision strikes against designated targets. Defence officials have consistently affirmed the aircraft's intended performance and have repeatedly denied any combat losses during the operation. The June 2026 tender now stands as the most recent official record supporting India's position that its Rafale fleet remains fully intact.
Future Acquisitions on the Horizon
Amidst these ongoing discussions, India is also progressing with plans to acquire an additional 114 Rafale fighter jets from French manufacturer Dassault Aviation under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) programme. Recent high-level discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron included the proposed acquisition, emphasizing India's 'Make in India' initiative.
The Ministry of External Affairs has indicated that discussions on the Rafale programme are advancing, with India advocating for a framework based on co-development, co-design, and co-production for future defence projects. Under the MRFA programme, 18 aircraft are expected to be delivered in flyaway condition, with the remaining jets slated for manufacturing in India, incorporating approximately 50 percent indigenous content.