India to Discuss Rs 3.25 Lakh Crore Rafale Deal

India's Defence Ministry is preparing to discuss a major proposal this week to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets from France in a deal valued at approximately Rs 3.25 lakh crore, marking the country's largest-ever defence procurement. The aircraft, primarily 4.5-generation multirole fighters, would bolster the Indian Air Force amid ongoing regional security challenges, with most units set for manufacture in India.

The high-level meeting, expected within the next two to three days, follows a Statement of Case submitted by the Indian Air Force to the ministry several months ago. If approved by the ministry, the proposal would require final clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security. Under the government-to-government arrangement, around 12 to 18 jets would be delivered in flyaway condition from France for rapid induction, while the remainder would be produced domestically with about 30 percent indigenous content. Defence officials indicated that India is seeking French assistance to integrate local weapons and systems into the platforms, though source codes would remain with the French side.

This acquisition would expand India's Rafale fleet significantly. The air force...