Rafale jet's parts to be made in India soon, first production outside France

Dassault Aviation has partnered with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) to produce the fuselage of Rafale fighter aircraft in India for both domestic and global markets. This marks the first time in history that Rafale fuselages will be manufactured outside France.

Under the agreement, four Production Transfer Agreements have been signed between the companies. The first fuselage sections are expected to roll out by FY2028, with a production capacity of up to two complete fuselages per month.

A dedicated facility will be established in Hyderabad to manufacture key structural sections of the aircraft, including the central fuselage, rear section, lateral rear shells and front section.

This collaboration aligns with India’s strategic goals under the ‘Make in India’ and AtmaNirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiatives.

Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, emphasised that this partnership is a “decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India,” noting that it aligns with the company's long-term strategy to collaborate with Indian aerospace firms like TASL.

Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD of TASL, described the partnership as a milestone in India’s aerospace journey, demonstrating both India's manufacturing prowess and the trust international aerospace leaders place in Indian partners.

“The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems’ capabilities and the strength of our collaboration with Dassault Aviation. It also reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that can support global platforms,” Singh said.

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