India Nears Historic Rafale Deal: 114 Jets to Boost Air Force Power

• India is close to finalizing a Rs 3.25 lakh crore deal for 114 Dassault Rafale F4 fighter jets from France, a major acquisition for the Indian Air Force.
• The deal includes 88 single-seat fighters and 26 twin-seat trainers, with initial 18 jets delivered fly-away and the remaining 96 produced in India at the DRAL facility in Nagpur.
• This acquisition will significantly increase India's Rafale fleet to nearly 150 for the Air Force, making India the largest Rafale operator globally with around 176 jets across Air Force and Navy.
• The Rafale F4 standard upgrade enhances connectivity and network-centric warfare, with future F5 upgrades planned to integrate with unmanned systems.
• The deal addresses the IAF's declining squadron strength and regional security concerns, providing a critical force multiplier and bridging the gap until indigenous programs mature.