India is set to move a step closer to one of its largest-ever fighter aircraft acquisitions. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is expected to soon consider a proposal to procure 114 Rafale fighter jets from France, according to sources. The decision is likely to come ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit later this month, signalling momentum in a deal that could significantly strengthen the Indian Air Force (IAF).

DAC Approval Expected Soon

Officials said the DAC, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, is likely to meet in the coming days to grant the crucial Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the multi-billion-dollar programme.
The proposal has already crossed an important milestone. Last month, the Defence Procurement Board, led by the Defence Secretary, cleared the acquisition plan, bringing the process closer to formal negotiations.

If approved, the contract is estimated to be worth around Rs 3.25 lakh crore, making it one of the most expensive fighter jet procurements in India’s defence history.

Addressing the IAF’s Squadron Shortfall

The push for additional fighter jets comes at a time when the Indian Air Force is facing a significant operational gap. The IAF currently operates about 29 squadrons, well below its sanctioned strength of 42.
At the same time, security challenges continue to evolve along both the western and northern borders, increasing the urgency to enhance air combat capability.

‘Make in India’ to Drive Local Production

According to the proposed plan, India will procure 114 Rafale aircraft, but only a small portion will arrive fully built.

• 18 jets are expected to be delivered in fly-away condition
• The remaining aircraft will be manufactured in India
• Nearly 80% of the fleet is likely to be produced domestically
• Indigenous content could reach around 60% under the Make in India initiative

The configuration is expected to include 88 single-seat and 26 twin-seat variants. French manufacturer Dassault Aviation is likely to partner with Indian private sector firms for local production and assembly.

Why Rafale Matters for India’s Air Power

Defence planners see the Rafale as a key force multiplier for the IAF. The aircraft is already operational in India and has demonstrated strong performance due to its advanced sensors and long-range strike capability.

The platform is equipped with powerful weapon systems, including:

• Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles
• SCALP long-range cruise missiles

These capabilities significantly enhance India’s precision strike and deep-attack potential.

Strategic Factors Behind the Urgency

Officials also pointed to the changing regional security environment as a major factor driving the acquisition. Increasing strategic coordination between Pakistan and China, along with shifting geopolitical dynamics in the neighbourhood, has heightened the need for rapid capability enhancement.

What Happens Next?

Once the DAC grants AoN, the project will move into detailed technical and commercial negotiations. The final structure, pricing, and timelines of the deal are expected to take shape over the coming months.
If the process stays on track, the proposed Rafale acquisition could mark a major leap in India’s air power, and a significant milestone in its long-term defence modernisation efforts.