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*New Delhi* — The Indian Air Force (IAF) is pressing the central governmentto fast-track the procurement of additional Rafale fighter jets fromFrance, citing the urgent need to bolster the country’s air defencecapabilities amid rising security challenges in the region.
According to senior defence officials, the IAF has formally communicatedits request to the Ministry of Defence, highlighting that the induction ofmore Rafales would significantly enhance India’s combat readiness anddeterrence power. The push comes in the wake of heightened tensions alongthe northern borders and increasing aerial threats in the Indian Oceanregion.
India currently operates 36 Rafale aircraft, which were inducted intoservice between 2020 and 2022 under a €7.87 billion deal signed in 2016with French defence manufacturer Dassault Aviation. The IAF has repeatedlyexpressed satisfaction with the jets’ performance, particularly theiradvanced avionics, precision strike capability, and long-range operationalcapacity.
Sources indicate that the proposed purchase could involve at least 26 newRafales, possibly for deployment aboard the Indian Navy’s aircraftcarriers, in addition to bolstering the Air Force fleet. Negotiations areexpected to cover pricing, technology transfer, and maintenance agreements,similar to the terms of the earlier deal.
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Defence analysts believe the move would strengthen India’s position againstpotential adversaries and provide a qualitative edge in future conflicts.However, critics have urged transparency in the procurement process toavoid controversy, referencing political debates that surrounded the firstRafale agreement.
If approved, the fresh acquisition could be finalised within the currentfiscal year, aligning with India’s long-term plan to modernise its armedforces and maintain strategic superiority in the region.