In a significant move to strengthen India’s defense capabilities, the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) is set to approve the procurement of 114 Rafale jets, enhancing the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) air combat power. This comes at a time when French President Emmanuel Macron is slated to visit New Delhi for the AI Summit from February 15 to 17, 2026, adding diplomatic momentum to the procurement discussions. With this approval, India is taking a major step in modernizing its air force amid growing regional security concerns.
The DAC’s Crucial Decision
Chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, the DAC is expected to grant the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the acquisition of the 114 Rafale jets. This marks the first formal step under India’s defense procurement procedures and paves the way for more detailed commercial negotiations. The deal is expected to significantly enhance India’s aerial capabilities, ensuring that the IAF remains prepared to handle evolving threats in the region.
Under the proposed deal, India will acquire 18 off-the-shelf Rafale jets from Dassault Aviation, the French manufacturer. The remaining 96 jets will be produced in India through partnerships with private sector firms, further bolstering the domestic defense manufacturing sector. Additionally, a portion of these jets will be twin-seaters, specifically designated for training purposes, helping to enhance IAF pilot readiness.
Previous Approval and Strategic Importance
Prior to the DAC’s review, the Defence Procurement Board, led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, had already approved the proposal last month. This approval ensured the deal was ready for final scrutiny and endorsement.
The deal comes on the heels of India’s successful integration of 36 Rafale jets into its fleet, which have already proven their effectiveness in combat. Notably, these Rafales were deployed during Operation Sindoor, India’s retaliatory strikes against Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. The Rafales, armed with state-of-the-art systems such as Scalp missiles, Meteor air-to-air missiles, and Hammer precision-guided bombs, were instrumental in neutralizing terror bases and Pakistani military installations, including enemy aircraft.
The Deal’s Financial Scope
The estimated cost of this ambitious procurement stands at approximately ₹3.25 lakh crore, a substantial investment that will significantly enhance India’s aerial capabilities. This acquisition will not only bolster the IAF’s readiness but also strengthen India’s defense posture amid ongoing regional tensions and the persistent threat of cross-border terrorism.
The Role of Air Chief Marshal AP Singh
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has been a strong advocate for this acquisition, particularly highlighting the urgent need for 114 multi-role fighters. In October 2025, he underscored the importance of these jets in rapidly modernizing the IAF’s aging fleet of fighter squadrons, which are facing increased pressure due to evolving regional threats. His advocacy has been a driving force behind the push for this deal, which aims to replace outdated jets and maintain India’s strategic advantage in the region.
A Move Toward Indigenization
This deal also aligns with India’s broader strategy to indigenize defense production. The decision to produce 96 of the 114 Rafale jets in collaboration with private sector firms under the ‘Make in India’ initiative is a critical step toward reducing reliance on foreign manufacturers. This move aims to develop India’s aerospace manufacturing sector, creating jobs and boosting the country’s self-reliance in defense technology.
By incorporating private sector expertise in the production of these advanced fighter jets, India is poised to take a significant leap in its defense manufacturing capabilities, a key pillar of the government’s defense policy.
Macron’s Visit and Strengthened Indo-French Defense Ties
The timing of this defense deal, coinciding with French President Macron’s visit to India, further underscores the strengthening defense ties between the two nations. The visit, focused on the AI Summit, is expected to deepen the already robust strategic partnership between India and France. This deal follows the original 36 Rafale jets deal signed in 2016, which has already proven successful, and signals ongoing collaboration in the defense sector.
The continued partnership between India and France is indicative of a shared vision for global security, especially in the Indo-Pacific region, where both nations face increasing challenges.
What’s Next?
Once the DAC grants its AoN, the deal will move to the next stage of rigorous commercial negotiations. Following this, it will require approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Once cleared, the production and delivery of the jets will commence, with some jets being assembled in India.
This deal is a critical component of India’s long-term strategy to modernize its military capabilities, particularly its air force, which plays a crucial role in defending India’s borders. The Rafale jets, with their cutting-edge technology, will ensure that the IAF remains a dominant force in the region.
Strengthening India’s Strategic Defense
The proposed acquisition of 114 Rafale jets represents a significant leap forward for India’s defense modernization efforts. With 18 jets purchased directly from Dassault Aviation and 96 produced in India, this deal will enhance both India’s air power and its domestic defense industry. The strategic partnership between India and France, highlighted by the timing of Macron’s visit, sets the stage for further collaborations in the future.
As the DAC moves towards granting approval, and with the endorsement of Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and other defense leaders, the deal stands as a testament to India’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities in the face of growing regional challenges. With the Rafale jets, India is preparing to maintain a competitive edge in modern aerial warfare.
