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SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) pursuit of 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) has reignited discussions on technology transfer (ToT) from foreign vendors, particularly with regards to the Dassault Rafale. However, as India’s own Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program progresses, the strategic value of ToT for the Rafale comes into question.

Here’s why the ToT for Rafale might not offer significant advantages to India’s aerospace sector.

The AMCA, India’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet, is slated for production by the late 2020s or early 2030s. With this timeline, by the time the MRFA tender would result in actual deliveries, the AMCA could potentially be in the initial stages of deployment or at least advanced testing.

The technologies that might be transferred through the Rafale deal, such as avionics, stealth technology, or advanced radar systems, are areas where the AMCA is already focusing significant R&D. Thus, the ToT might not bring much new to the table beyond what’s being developed internally.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) have been actively developing and integrating advanced technologies for the Tejas and AMCA programs. This includes work on AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radars, stealth features, and indigenous engines, which are crucial for a modern combat aircraft.

Much of what could be transferred in terms of Rafale’s technology—materials, avionics, and weapon systems integration—are already on the roadmap for the AMCA. Therefore, the ToT might not significantly advance India’s technological base beyond what’s already planned.

The cost of ToT, including royalties, maintenance, and long-term support contracts, might not justify the technological gains when domestic capabilities are already on an upward trajectory. Investing in domestic R&D for AMCA could yield more control over technology and potentially lower long-term costs.

ToT often comes with strings attached, including restrictions on further development or export of the technology. This could limit India’s ability to fully utilize or modify the technology for its unique strategic needs, especially when compared to the freedom offered by developing its own aircraft.

The resources (both financial and human) that would be invested in implementing and absorbing Rafale’s ToT could be better utilized in accelerating the AMCA project or other indigenous developments. This would align better with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative.

Developing AMCA allows for customization to Indian military requirements, climate, and operational scenarios, which might not be as feasible with foreign technology transfers. The AMCA is designed to incorporate future technologies, including possibly sixth-generation features, making it a more forward-looking investment. Transferring technology for a fourth-generation plus aircraft like the Rafale might not be as beneficial in the long term as developing indigenous capabilities that can evolve with global advancements.

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