New Delhi: As China continues to strengthen its air force, concerns are rising among experts about the gradual decline in the number of combat aircraft in the Indian Air Force. In response, the Government of India has reportedly decided to purchase an additional 40 Rafale fighter jets from France. The deal is expected to be conducted on a government-to-government (G2G) basis.
According to reports, the French Defence Minister is scheduled to visit India on either April 28 or 29. During this visit, an agreement is likely to be signed between India and France for the purchase of naval variant Rafale jets for the Indian Navy. These Rafales will be deployed on India’s aircraft carriers.
The India Power Report states that high-level discussions have taken place between India and France. These meetings have covered critical issues, including the procurement of engines from the French company Safran for helicopters made in India, and the second batch of Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force. The current deal is being called a “fast-track GAZRAI-PUSH deal.”
Under the GAZRAI (Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft) program, India plans to purchase 114 fighter jets, and discussions at various levels are ongoing. Although India will need to procure these 114 jets, no formal tender has yet been issued by the government. Given the immediate requirements of the Indian Air Force and its established compatibility with Rafale aircraft, the government has decided to proceed with a direct purchase.
A senior official involved in the discussions said this is not just a simple acquisition but part of a broader strategic plan that will continue into the future. To maintain full strength in the Indian Air Force, a minimum of 42.5 squadrons is necessary, but currently only 31 squadrons are operational. In the event of simultaneous conflict with both China and Pakistan, this shortfall could pose a major challenge for India.
Earlier this year, Air Force Marshal A.P. Singh also stated that due to the retirement of older aircraft, it is necessary to add 35 to 40 new fighter jets every year to maintain operational strength.
Meanwhile, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has plans to supply 97 Tejas Mk-1A jets by 2030, but due to the slow pace of production, meeting this target appears to be difficulty
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