SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Dassault Aviation has projected India to become one of the largest operators of the Rafale fighter jet globally, following the French Air Force and Navy. With the Indian Air Force (IAF) already possessing 36 Rafales and the recent approval for 26 Rafale Marine fighters for the Indian Navy, India’s Rafale fleet is set to expand significantly.
Dassault’s optimism stems from the potential for further Rafale exports to India. The company has offered to manufacture Rafale jets in India to meet the IAF’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) for 114 jets. This proposal positions India as a key market for the Rafale, solidifying Dassault’s lead in the export of this advanced fighter aircraft.
Should the MRFA deal materialize, India would become home to a remarkable 176 Rafale fighter jets. In comparison, the French Air Force currently operates 185 Rafales, and the French Navy has 46 in service.
Dassault’s export growth forecast for 2040 also anticipates the Indian Navy surpassing the French Navy as the largest operator of Rafale M with Potential orders for 31 more Rafale M, which could cross 200 units of Rafale in India. Indian Navy originally planned to procure 57 multi-role combat fighter jets for the Navy’s aircraft carrier which was later shrunken to 26 units due to the TEDBF program, while Dassault is optimistic that once local production of Rafale begins in India, the Navy will chip in with more orders.
The Rafale’s advanced capabilities, coupled with India’s growing defence needs, make it an ideal choice for the country’s air force and navy. The continued expansion of India’s Rafale fleet is expected to enhance its military capabilities and strengthen its strategic position in the region.
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