Operation Sindoor 2.0: With 114 new Rafales, India set to turn Pakistani air defenses into sitting ducks | India News
The Indian government is preparing to approve one of the largest defense purchases in history. This move could cause alarm in China and Pakistan. As French President Emmanuel Macron prepares for his official visit to India later this month, sources have suggested that a major update to the 114 Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MRFA) program is imminent.
The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, will meet on February 12. The council is expected to give the crucial Acknowledgment of Necessity (AoN) to purchase 114 Rafale fighter jets.
A strategic move: 114 jets for 3.25 lakh crore rupees
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The proposal has already received approval from the Defense Procurement Board (DPB), led by the Minister of Defence. The upcoming DAC meeting is the final step before the formal global tender process begins.
Key points of the proposed agreement:
– Quantity: 114 Rafale fighter jets.
– Estimated Cost: Approx. ₹3.25 Lakh Crore ($39 Billion).
– “Make in India” Component: As per the proposed terms, 18 aircraft will be purchased from France on a “fly away” basis, while the remaining 96 will be manufactured in India through strategic partnership.
Strengthening of IAF: The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently has 29-30 fighter squadrons. This is well short of the 42 squadrons needed to deal with a two-front war.
Why Rafale? China-Pakistan factor
With changing regional tensions, the IAF needs a “force multiplier” capable of long-range precision strikes and advanced electronic warfare. Rafale, currently in service with the IAF, has demonstrated its strength in the high altitude regions of the Himalaya. This massive order aims to rapidly modernize the fleet, replace obsolete Soviet-era aircraft and give India a significant advantage over its neighbours.
Road to the Runway: How Is the Deal Progressing?
A deal of this size goes through a comprehensive, multi-step process to ensure transparency and strategic objectives:
1. Acceptance of Necessity (AoN): DAC gives the first “go” order. This is expected to happen on February 12.
2. Request for Proposal (RFP): The Ministry of Defense sends a formal tender to the vendor (Dassault Aviation) detailing technical and financial needs.
3. Technical and Commercial Evaluation: Proposals are reviewed for technology transfer and “Make in India” commitments.
4. Contract Negotiation Committee (CNC): This phase usually takes the longest as discussions focus on the final price, maintenance packages and India-specific enhancements.
5. CCS Approval: The Cabinet Security Committee, led by the Prime Minister, gives final financial approval.
6. Signing a Contract: This is the official transaction that legally binds two countries.
Strengthening the Indo-French alliance
The timing of this DAC meeting is strategic. President Macron’s visit underscores a growing defense partnership between New Delhi and Paris. While the final contract could take months or even years, DAC’s approval will demonstrate India’s determination to dominate the skies and establish itself as a major aviation hub.
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