India Prepares ₹3.25 Lakh Crore Rafale Deal to Boost Air Force Strength

Published on: 06 Feb 2026 at 07:13 AM

Published by: Gill Bikram

India Prepares ₹3.25 Lakh Crore Rafale Deal to Boost Air Force Strength

New Delhi, February 6, 2026: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is advancing a major defense deal to strengthen its fighter capabilities. Ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit in the third week of February, the Defence Ministry will hold crucial discussions on a ₹3.25 lakh crore proposal for 114 Rafale fighter jets. The Defence Acquisition Board has already granted initial approval last month, with operational details to be finalized in a high-level meeting next week.

Currently, the IAF operates only 30 fighter squadrons, far short of the 42 needed for national security. Amid evolving threats from Pakistan, China, and recent changes in Bangladesh, this deal holds strategic importance. Under the project, India will receive 88 single-seater and 26 twin-seater aircraft. Notably, nearly 80% will be manufactured in India through Dassault Aviation’s collaboration with Indian private firms under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Upon completion, India will have a total of 176 Rafale jets—150 for the Air Force and 26 for the Navy. The government has also increased the defense budget by 15% to ₹7.85 lakh crore this year, signaling commitment to military modernization. President Macron will attend the AI Summit in Delhi on February 18, during which final approval for this strategic deal is anticipated.