INDIA'S 114 RAFALE GAMBITS: A POWER PLAY IN ASIAN SKIES

The successful implementation of the 114 Rafale acquisition programme could serve as a template for future defence procurements, demonstrating effective integration of immediate operational requirements with long-term industrial development objectives. The combination of rapid capability acquisition through initial flyaway deliveries and sustained indigenous manufacturing development represents a sophisticated approach to contemporary defence procurement challenges, argues GIRISH LINGANNA

- GIRISH LINGANNA

The Indian Air Force's ambitious proposal to acquire 114 additional Rafale fighter jets represents far more than a routine defence procurement decision. It embodies India's evolving strategic calculus in an increasingly complex security environment, while simultaneously offering unprecedented opportunities for indigenous aerospace manufacturing through French engine technology transfer.

As the Defence Ministry begins its comprehensive review of this Statement of Case, valued at over Rs 2 lakh crore, the proposal signals a potential paradigm shift in India's approach to fighter aircraft acquisition and indigenous manufacturing capabilities.

The timing of this proposal carries particular significance following the operational validation of existing Rafale capabilities during Operation Sindoor in May 2025. The precision strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan demonstrated the aircraft's effectiveness in real combat scenarios, reinforcing the Indian Air Force's confidence in the platform's capabilities. Despite contested claims regarding aircraft losses during the operation, the overall mission success validated the Rafale's role as a cornerstone of India's modern combat aviation strategy. This operational experience has strengthened the case for fleet expansion, providing empirical evidence of the aircraft's utility in India's specific operational environment.

The current squadron strength crisis facing the Indian Air Force adds unprecedented urgency to this acquisition proposal. With the final phaseout of MiG-21 aircraft completed on September 26, 2025, operational strength has now declined to just 29 squadrons against a sanctioned requirement of 42.5 squadrons, representing the lowest level in the service's history. This critical shortfall of 13.5 squadrons creates alarming gaps in air defence coverage across India's vast territorial expanse, particularly concerning the evolving security challenges on multiple fronts.