Rajnath Singh-Led Defence Body to Clear 114 Rafale Jets Acquisition Tomorrow

• Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Rajnath Singh to meet on Thursday (February 12).
• Likely approval for 114 additional Dassault Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force under the MRFA programme.
• The acquisition aims to address the IAF's declining squadron strength, currently at 29 against an authorized 42.
• DAC also expected to consider indigenous surveillance systems (HAPS) and maritime patrol aircraft (P-8I Poseidon).
• The deal, estimated at Rs 3.25 lakh crore, emphasizes 'Make in India' with technology transfer and local production.