French defense major Thales has selected SFO Technologies of India to manufacture complex wired assemblies for the RBE2 AESA radar used on the Rafale combat aircraft in service with the Indian Armed Forces.
The RBE2, designed by Thales for Dassault Aviation’s Rafale, is a core sensor that underpins the fighter’s operational performance. The companies stated that this represents the first RBE2 radar-related order awarded to SFO Technologies and forms part of Thales’ ongoing efforts to localize production in India.
Details regarding the contract value and the quantity of radar systems covered were not revealed. The decision comes in the wake of India’s 2023 approval to procure 26 Rafale aircraft for the Indian Navy’s carrier-based aviation wing.
As part of the contract, SFO Technologies will handle wiring, assembly, and integration work associated with radar structures. The RBE2 AESA radar supports a wide range of missions, from air combat and ground attack to target tracking and electronic warfare.
Thales said local production will help strengthen supply chain robustness while reducing reliance on foreign manufacturing for sensitive defense equipment. The initiative supports India’s “Make in India” policy, under which global defense OEMs are encouraged to source components locally and develop industrial capabilities within the country. Thales has continued to expand its Indian operations, particularly in electronics, radar technologies, and aerospace manufacturing.
