Overview

• The Defence Ministry received the Indian Air Force’s Statement of Case a few days ago, with Defence Finance reviewing it before expected consideration by the Defence Procurement Board and then the Defence Acquisition Council.
• If cleared, the programme would expand India’s Rafale inventory to 176 aircraft, combining 36 already in IAF service with 26 naval Rafale-M on order under government-to-government deals.
• The plan calls for domestic manufacturing by Dassault Aviation in partnership with Indian aerospace firms under the Make in India framework, with reports pointing to more than 60% indigenous content.
• French engine maker Safran has outlined an MRO facility in Hyderabad for Rafale M88 engines, signaling a local sustainment ecosystem tied to the proposed build-out.
• IAF officials cite urgent fighter shortfalls from retirements and delayed Tejas deliveries, with recent Rafale performance in Operation Sindoor referenced in support of fleet expansion.