Introduction
India’s defense landscape is undergoing a significant transformation with the introduction of Rafale fighters. Dassault Aviation’s plans to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility near Jewar International Airport signify a major boost to India’s “Make in India” initiative. This move aims to address the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) long-pending need for around 100 twin-engine multi-role fighters over the next two decades.
Manufacturing Rafale Fighters in India
The Emmanuel Macron government and Dassault Aviation have committed to manufacturing Rafale fighters in India. This decision aligns with the “Make in India” initiative, promising locally sourced components. Furthermore, engine manufacturer Safran SA is setting up an MRO facility in Hyderabad. This facility will handle Rafale fighter engines if the numbers justify it. Additionally, Safran has indicated its willingness to manufacture the M-88 engines in India if the IAF places an order for Rafale fighters.
Strategic Benefits
Manufacturing Rafale fighters in India offers numerous strategic advantages. It not only meets India’s immediate defense needs but also positions the country as a potential exporter of advanced fighters. Dassault Aviation has already started sourcing titanium parts from Indian companies. The company plans to add more local vendors to the supply chain, enhancing the economic benefits of this initiative.
Addressing the IAF’s Needs
The IAF currently operates 36 Rafale fighters equipped with Hammer and SCALP missiles. The Indian Navy is also negotiating for 26 Maritime Strike Rafales for the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier. Base maintenance depots, repairs, training, and simulators for Rafales are already established at the Ambala air base. Given the extensive gestation period for fighters and engines, the Modi government has taken reassurance from France’s stable licensing policy. This policy ensures that there are no supply chain hiccups, akin to the situation with Russia.
Countering Regional Threats
The geopolitical landscape in the region necessitates a strong and well-equipped air force. The Chinese PLA’s aggressive stance on land and sea, coupled with its fifth-generation J-20 fighters, poses a significant challenge. China has developed the WS-15 engine through reverse engineering from the Russian AL-31 and is rapidly expanding its force levels. Consequently, the IAF must bolster its capabilities to meet this increasing threat.
Safran’s Joint Venture for Helicopter Engines
In addition to fighter aircraft, Safran is ready to enter into a joint venture with an Indian company for manufacturing engines for Indian Multi-Role Helicopters (IMRH). This collaboration ensures that India does not have to rely on third countries for urgent supplies. It further solidifies India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Economic and Strategic Win-Win
The manufacture of Rafale fighters in India is a win-win for both countries. Dassault Aviation has a substantial backlog of fighter orders from Croatia, Greece, Serbia, Egypt, Qatar, UAE, and Indonesia. The company is also negotiating with Saudi Arabia and the French Air Force for additional supplies. Given its current commitments, Dassault lacks the capacity to manufacture extra planes for India without local production.
Also See: Turbulence on Air Europa Flight: Safety Measures and Passenger Experiences
Conclusion
India’s decision to manufacture Rafale fighters locally represents a strategic and economic milestone. It addresses the IAF’s long-standing requirements, strengthens India’s defense capabilities, and positions the country as a key player in the global defense market. The collaboration with Dassault Aviation and Safran ensures a robust supply chain and technological transfer, bolstering India’s defense sector for decades to come.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/
