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India Approves $39 Billion Defense Package, Opening Path to 114 Rafale Fighters Built in India

Key commercial terms are expected to be negotiated during President Macron’s 17–19 February visit.

Overview

  • The Defence Acquisition Council issued the initial approval, a required first step in India’s procurement process, according to the Ministry of Defence.
  • The ministry said the majority of the multirole aircraft in the program will be manufactured domestically under the Make in India policy.
  • An Indian defence source and French officials report the plan covers 114 Rafale jets for the Air Force, which would represent Dassault’s largest export order if finalized.
  • The wider package is valued at $39 billion (€33 billion) and also includes combat missiles and a high‑altitude pseudo‑satellite, according to reporting.
  • The French presidency called the decision a very important milestone, with specifics on production share, weapons, training and sustainment still to be finalized.