13 Feb 2026·Source: The Indian Express

4 min

Polity & GovernanceInternational RelationsNEWS

India Approves Purchase of 114 Rafale Fighter Jets for IAF

Defence Acquisition Council clears proposal to purchase 114 Rafale aircraft from France.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has cleared a proposal to purchase 114 Rafale multirole fighter aircraft from France under an inter-governmental deal. 90 of these aircraft will be manufactured in India. The DAC, headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared the proposal days before French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to India. The induction of 114 Rafale will fill a critical capability gap, as the IAF squadron strength is down to 29 against the sanctioned 42.

Key Facts

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the proposal to purchase 114 Rafale multirole fighter aircraft.

The purchase will be from France under an inter-governmental deal.

90 of these aircraft will be manufactured in India.

The IAF squadron strength is down to 29 against the sanctioned 42.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper 3: Security, Defence Procurement

Connects to: India's Defence Policy, Make in India Initiative

Potential Question Types: Statement-based, Analytical

Visual Insights

Key Figures: Rafale Deal

Highlights key numbers related to the Rafale fighter jet deal approved by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC).

Number of Rafale Jets: 114
Rafale Jets Made in India: 90
IAF Squadron Strength (Current): 29
IAF Sanctioned Squadron Strength: 42

More Information

Background

The need for advanced fighter jets like the Rafale stems from the evolving geopolitical landscape and the necessity to maintain a credible deterrent. India's air force has historically relied on a mix of domestically produced and imported aircraft. The HAL Tejas, for instance, represents India's indigenous efforts in defense production. However, the complexity of modern warfare often necessitates acquiring advanced technology from foreign sources. The acquisition of fighter jets often involves complex negotiations and considerations of technology transfer. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) plays a crucial role in these decisions, ensuring that the acquisitions align with the nation's strategic interests and budgetary constraints. The process also involves evaluating different aircraft based on their capabilities, cost-effectiveness, and the potential for integration with existing systems. Past acquisitions, such as the MiG-21s and Sukhoi Su-30MKIs, have shaped the Indian Air Force's operational capabilities. Inter-governmental agreements, like the one for the Rafale jets, are often preferred due to their inherent transparency and reduced risk of corruption. These agreements are typically governed by specific clauses related to technology transfer, maintenance, and long-term support. The Make in India initiative also plays a significant role, encouraging foreign manufacturers to establish production facilities in India, fostering indigenous capabilities and creating employment opportunities. This aligns with the broader goal of achieving self-reliance in defense production.

Latest Developments

The recent approval for the Rafale purchase reflects the government's continued focus on modernizing the Indian Air Force. This acquisition aligns with the broader strategic objective of enhancing India's defense capabilities in the face of evolving security challenges. The decision also comes amidst ongoing discussions about the need for greater indigenization in defense production, as highlighted by the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. There are diverse perspectives on the optimal approach to defense procurement. Some experts advocate for prioritizing indigenous production, even if it means accepting slightly lower performance levels in the short term. Others argue that acquiring advanced technology from foreign sources is essential to maintain a competitive edge. The debate often revolves around balancing the need for self-reliance with the imperative to address immediate security concerns. Institutions like DRDO play a crucial role in fostering indigenous defense capabilities. Looking ahead, the focus is likely to remain on enhancing both indigenous production and strategic partnerships with foreign manufacturers. The government has set ambitious targets for increasing defense exports and reducing reliance on imports. Upcoming milestones include the further development of indigenous fighter aircraft and the strengthening of domestic defense manufacturing infrastructure. The long-term goal is to establish India as a major player in the global defense market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key facts about the Rafale deal that are important for the UPSC Prelims exam?

For UPSC Prelims, remember that the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the purchase of 114 Rafale aircraft from France. 90 of these will be manufactured in India. Also, note that the IAF squadron strength is currently at 29, while the sanctioned strength is 42.

Exam Tip

Focus on the numbers: 114 aircraft, 90 made in India, 29 current squadron strength, 42 sanctioned strength.

2. What is the significance of the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) in the Rafale deal?

The Rafale purchase is being done through an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) with France. This means the deal is directly between the governments of India and France, which often implies a smoother and potentially faster procurement process compared to open tenders.

3. How does the Rafale deal align with the 'Make in India' initiative?

The Rafale deal includes a provision for 90 of the 114 aircraft to be manufactured in India. This aligns with the 'Make in India' initiative by promoting domestic defense production and technology transfer.

4. Why is the purchase of Rafale aircraft important for India's defense?

The induction of 114 Rafale aircraft will help fill a critical capability gap in the Indian Air Force (IAF). The IAF squadron strength is currently down to 29 against a sanctioned strength of 42. These advanced fighter jets are needed to maintain a credible deterrent in the evolving geopolitical landscape.

5. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of purchasing Rafale aircraft from France?

Pros include acquiring advanced technology and enhancing IAF capabilities quickly through an IGA. Cons might involve the cost of acquisition and the dependence on a foreign supplier, although local manufacturing addresses this partially.

6. How might the purchase of Rafale aircraft impact common citizens?

While seemingly distant, a stronger defense capability can contribute to national security and stability, indirectly benefiting citizens. However, the significant financial investment in defense could also be viewed in relation to other pressing needs like healthcare and education.

7. Why is the Rafale deal in the news recently?

The Rafale deal is in the news because the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) recently cleared a proposal to purchase 114 Rafale multirole fighter aircraft from France. This happened shortly before French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to India.

8. What is the role of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)?

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by the Defence Minister, is responsible for approving major defense procurements. In this case, the DAC cleared the proposal to purchase 114 Rafale aircraft.

9. What is the current status of the Indian Air Force (IAF) squadron strength, and why is it important?

The IAF squadron strength is down to 29 against a sanctioned strength of 42. Maintaining adequate squadron strength is crucial for ensuring India's air defense capabilities and responding to potential threats.

10. What are the important dates and personalities associated with this Rafale deal announcement?

Key personalities are Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who heads the DAC, and French President Emmanuel Macron. Emmanuel Macron's visit to India on 2026-02-17 is also relevant.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the recent Rafale fighter jet deal: 1. The deal involves the purchase of 114 Rafale multirole fighter aircraft. 2. All 114 aircraft will be manufactured in India. 3. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the proposal. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.1 and 3 only
C.2 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has cleared a proposal to purchase 114 Rafale multirole fighter aircraft. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: Only 90 of these aircraft will be manufactured in India, not all 114. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The DAC, headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared the proposal. Therefore, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

2. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is responsible for:

A.Overseeing the welfare of retired defence personnel
B.Approving all defence procurements and acquisitions
C.Managing the financial budget of the Ministry of Defence
D.Coordinating joint military exercises with foreign countries

Show Answer

Answer: B

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by the Defence Minister, is the highest decision-making body in the Ministry of Defence for deciding on new policies and capital acquisitions for the three services (Army, Navy and Air Force) and the Indian Coast Guard.

3. Which of the following initiatives promotes indigenous defence production in India?

A.Skill India Mission
B.Digital India Campaign
C.Make in India Initiative
D.Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

Show Answer

Answer: C

The Make in India Initiative aims to encourage companies to manufacture their products in India. This includes the defence sector, promoting indigenous defence production and reducing reliance on imports. The Rafale deal includes a clause for manufacturing 90 aircraft in India.