NEW DELHI, Feb 10: The Indian government is getting ready to approve one of the largest defense purchases in history. This move could raise alarms in China and Pakistan. As French President Emmanuel Macron prepares for his state visit to India later this month, sources suggested that an important update on the 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program is close.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), which Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chairs, is set to meet on February 12. They are expected to give the crucial Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for buying 114 Rafale fighter jets.
The proposal has already received approval from the Defence Procurement Board (DPB), led by the Defence Secretary. The upcoming DAC meeting is the last step before the official global tender process starts.
Key highlights of the proposed deal:
Quantity: 114 Rafale fighter jets. Estimated Cost: About ?3.25 Lakh Crore ($39 Billion).
"Make in India" Component: Under the proposed terms, 18 aircraft will be bought in "fly-away" condition from France, while the remaining 96 units will be made in India through a strategic partnership.
Strengthening the IAF: The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently has 29-30 fighter squadrons. This is well below the 42 squadrons needed to deal with a two-front war.
With changing regional tensions, the IAF needs a "force multiplier" capable of long-range precision attacks and advanced electronic warfare. The Rafale, already serving in the IAF, has shown its strength in high-altitude Himalayan areas. This large order aims to quickly modernize the fleet, replacing old Soviet-era aircraft and giving India a significant advantage over its neighbors.
Acceptance of Necessity (AoN): The DAC gives the initial "go-ahead." This is expected on February 12.
Request for Proposal (RFP): The Ministry of Defence sends a formal tender to the vendor (Dassault Aviation) detailing technical and financial needs. Technical & Commercial Evaluation: Bids are examined for technology transfer and "Make in India" commitments. "Z NEWS
