The Indian government is preparing to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to Dassault Aviation by mid-next month, taking a major step forward in the Indian Air Force’s multi-role fighter aircraft procurement initiative. The move comes after the Defence Acquisition Council approved the program on February 12, enabling the next phase of contract discussions with the French aerospace manufacturer.
The proposed deal covers the acquisition of 114 fighter aircraft and is structured to combine rapid force enhancement with long-term domestic manufacturing growth. Under the current framework, 18 aircraft will be delivered directly from France in flyaway condition to quickly reinforce the Indian Air Force’s operational capabilities. The remaining 96 fighters are expected to be produced in India with indigenous content exceeding 50 percent as part of the country’s broader defence indigenization strategy.
This two-stage acquisition model is aimed at addressing immediate squadron shortages while simultaneously developing a robust domestic aerospace industrial base. The local manufacturing segment is expected to involve extensive technology transfer, supply chain expansion, and collaboration with Indian public and private sector defence companies, strengthening India’s long-term fighter production ecosystem.
The program holds significant strategic importance as the Indian Air Force works to restore its authorized strength of 42 fighter squadrons. With older aircraft such as the MiG-21 approaching retirement and additional legacy fleets expected to phase out over the next decade, timely induction of advanced fighters is critical to maintaining combat readiness.
Once the RFP is issued, negotiations are likely to center on pricing, technology transfer provisions, manufacturing timelines, and the scale of Indian industry participation. Due to its size, complexity, and localization requirements, the project is considered one of the most significant defence acquisition efforts currently underway in India.
