New Delhi: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the procurement of 114 Rafale fighter jets in a bid to significantly enhance the Indian Air Force's operational capability.
The deal, estimated at around Rs 3.25 lakh crore, is set to become the largest defense procurement in India's history and is expected to be highlighted as a key strategic outcome of French President Emmanuel Macron's visit on February 18, underscoring the deepening defense partnership between India and France.
Defense sources said the acquisition is critical to addressing the IAF's operational needs amid evolving regional security challenges. The IAF currently operates about 30 fighter squadrons, well below its sanctioned strength of 42. Officials say the shortfall has become more pressing due to rising security concerns, including closer coordination among regional adversaries.
Under the plan, the IAF will acquire a mix of 88 single-seat and 26 twin-seat Rafale aircraft. Nearly 80 per cent of the 114 Rafale jets are expected to be manufactured domestically, with indigenous content possibly reaching 60 per cent under the Make in India framework.
Currently, India operates two Rafale squadrons: No. 17 "Golden Arrows" in Ambala, Haryana, and No. 101 'Falcons' in West Bengal's Hasimara, with the latter officially commissioned in July 2021.
