India Clears $39 Billion Deal to Buy French Rafale Jets

NEW DELHI: India has approved a $39 billion defence deal to acquire 114 French Rafale fighter jets, the defence ministry announced on Thursday, just days ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit.

The move is part of India’s efforts to reduce reliance on Russian military equipment while strengthening domestic production. Most of the jets are expected to be manufactured in India, with Dassault Aviation reportedly producing at least 90 locally.

The acquisition was approved by the Defence Acquisition Council, which includes top military officers and the defence minister. The deal will now move to commercial negotiations before final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The defence ministry said the purchase would enhance the Indian Air Force’s deterrence capabilities and enable long-range offensive strikes.

Fleet Modernisation:
The IAF’s ageing fleet has fallen short of approved numbers, with 29 jets operational against an official strength of 42. Retirements of MiG-21s, MiG-29s, and Mirage 2000s have further strained capacity.

India has already acquired 36 Rafale jets since 2015 and signed a deal last year for 26 more. The government has also encouraged domestic defence manufacturing and private sector participation to meet strategic requirements.

The decision comes after a four-day conflict with Pakistan in May 2025, during which several Indian jets, including three Rafales, were downed, highlighting the need to upgrade air capabilities.

Defence Expansion:
Alongside air force modernisation, India plans to build at least 75 ships and submarines domestically to strengthen its navy in response to regional challenges, particularly China’s presence in the Indian Ocean.

President Macron’s upcoming visit is expected to further consolidate India-France defence ties and cooperation in advanced military technology.