DAC Approves Purchase of 114 Rafale Fighter Jets for IAF

Defence Acquisition Council clears purchase of 114 Rafale fighter jets for IAF.

Photo by Vincent Genevay

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the purchase of 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF). This decision marks a significant step towards bolstering India's air defense capabilities. The acquisition process and specific details of the deal are likely to be elaborated upon in subsequent reports. The move underscores India's continued focus on modernizing its armed forces and enhancing its strategic preparedness.

Key Facts

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the purchase of 114 Rafale fighter jets.

The Rafale jets are intended for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The acquisition aims to bolster India's air defense capabilities.

The deal signifies India's focus on modernizing its armed forces.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper 3: Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism.

Connects to the syllabus by addressing India's defense preparedness and modernization efforts.

Potential question types include statement-based MCQs on defense procurement policies and the role of various institutions.

Visual Insights

Key Numbers: Rafale Fighter Jet Acquisition

Highlights the key statistic from the news: the number of Rafale fighter jets approved for purchase by the DAC.

Rafale Fighter Jets Approved: 114

More Information

Background

The need for advanced fighter jets stems from evolving geopolitical scenarios and the necessity to maintain a credible air defense. India's defense procurement policies have historically been shaped by strategic considerations and technological advancements. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) plays a crucial role in approving these acquisitions, ensuring alignment with national security objectives. The evolution of fighter jet technology has been marked by significant advancements in avionics, radar systems, and weapon capabilities. The acquisition of the Rafale fighter jets is part of a broader effort to modernize the Indian Air Force's fleet. Previous acquisitions, such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, have also contributed to enhancing India's air power. These acquisitions are often subject to scrutiny and debate, particularly regarding technology transfer and indigenous manufacturing under initiatives like Make in India. The legal framework governing defense acquisitions in India includes the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP), which outlines the guidelines and processes for acquiring defense equipment. The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) also plays a vital role in auditing defense deals to ensure transparency and accountability. These mechanisms are designed to safeguard public funds and promote efficiency in defense spending.

Latest Developments

Recent government initiatives have focused on promoting indigenization in defense manufacturing. The 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative aims to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and boost domestic production. This includes encouraging private sector participation in defense manufacturing and streamlining the procurement process. There are ongoing debates regarding the optimal mix of imported and domestically produced defense equipment. Some argue that relying too heavily on imports can compromise strategic autonomy, while others emphasize the need to acquire advanced technologies from abroad. Institutions like DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) play a crucial role in developing indigenous defense technologies. The future outlook for defense acquisitions in India involves a greater emphasis on technology transfer and co-production agreements. The government aims to establish India as a major defense manufacturing hub, both for domestic needs and for export. This will require significant investments in research and development, as well as a conducive regulatory environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the significance of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approving the purchase of 114 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF)?

The DAC's approval signifies a major step towards strengthening India's air defense capabilities and modernizing its armed forces. This acquisition reflects India's focus on enhancing its strategic preparedness in response to evolving geopolitical scenarios.

2. For UPSC Prelims, what key number should I remember regarding this Rafale fighter jet deal?

Remember the number 114, which represents the number of Rafale fighter jets approved for purchase by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Exam Tip

Focus on numerical data related to defense acquisitions for potential prelims questions.

3. How does the purchase of Rafale fighter jets align with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative?

While the purchase involves foreign aircraft, it can potentially include technology transfer and offsets that support domestic defense manufacturing. The 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative aims to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and boost domestic production, which could be integrated into future phases of the Rafale program or other defense projects.

4. What recent developments have influenced the decision to purchase additional Rafale fighter jets?

Recent government initiatives focusing on indigenization in defense manufacturing and the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative have likely influenced the decision. These initiatives aim to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and boost domestic production, potentially leading to a more comprehensive defense strategy.

5. What are the potential strategic advantages and disadvantages of procuring Rafale fighter jets for the IAF?

Procuring Rafale jets enhances air defense capabilities and strategic preparedness. However, reliance on foreign suppliers can pose challenges related to maintenance, spare parts, and geopolitical dependencies. Balancing these factors is crucial for long-term strategic autonomy.

6. Why is the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) important in the context of defense procurements?

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) plays a crucial role in approving defense acquisitions, ensuring they align with national security objectives. It is the primary body responsible for deciding on new policies and capital acquisitions for the Indian armed forces.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC): 1. The DAC is chaired by the Prime Minister of India. 2. The DAC approves all capital acquisitions for the armed forces. 3. The DAC includes representatives from the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of External Affairs. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is chaired by the Defence Minister, not the Prime Minister. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The DAC is responsible for approving all capital acquisitions for the armed forces. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The DAC includes representatives from the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of External Affairs, ensuring financial and strategic alignment.

2. In the context of defense procurement, what is the primary objective of the 'Make in India' initiative?

A.To increase defense imports from foreign countries
B.To promote indigenous defense manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers
C.To focus solely on exporting defense equipment
D.To privatize all defense industries

Show Answer

Answer: B

The primary objective of the 'Make in India' initiative in the context of defense procurement is to promote indigenous defense manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. This involves encouraging domestic companies to produce defense equipment and components within India, thereby boosting the country's self-reliance in defense.

3. Which of the following is NOT a function of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) related to defense procurement?

A.Auditing defense deals to ensure transparency and accountability
B.Evaluating the efficiency of defense spending
C.Approving defense procurement contracts
D.Examining the financial aspects of defense acquisitions

Show Answer

Answer: C

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) is responsible for auditing defense deals to ensure transparency and accountability, evaluating the efficiency of defense spending, and examining the financial aspects of defense acquisitions. However, the CAG does NOT approve defense procurement contracts. This function is typically performed by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) or other designated bodies within the Ministry of Defence.