Bad news for Pakistan, China as Indian Air Force eyes 114 advanced fighter jets from France; Contract likely to be inked in…

The India(BHARAT)n Air Force’s long-anticipated fighter plane is now on the verge of becoming a reality. At this moment, India(BHARAT) is seeking to increase its squadron strength, and in this context, the ambitious MRFA (Medium Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft) project for the acquisition of 114 fighter jets has reached an important juncture. According to the ZeeNews report citing the sources, India(BHARAT) has almost finalized its interest and approval for the most advanced version of France’s Dassault Rafale, the F4 Standard, in this procurement.

What aircraft is India(BHARAT) planning to acquire?

It is important to note that the Rafale F4 is a sophisticated, digital version of the existing Rafale aircraft, which exists in the Rafale series and has several new technologies that use Artificial Intelligence (AI). An IDRW article noted that the deal could be signed in 2026. This clearly indicates that India(BHARAT) is keen to quickly address the shortfall in its Air Force squadron strength.

Compared to the existing Rafale, the Rafale F4 represents a considerable advance. The technological leap will provide the India(BHARAT)n Air Force with a strong advantage. According to the ZeeNews report, the Rafale F4 possesses AI-based advanced communication systems that will improve and enhance connectivity between aircraft and with ground command centers.

How will the Rafale F4 enhance India(BHARAT)’s air power?

The variant will be able to integrate the next-generation weapon and sensor systems with increased strike power and precision. Lastly, the F4 is built to allow for increased maintenance efficiency and reduced aspects of downtime, allowing the aircraft to remain operational for longer periods, reported ZeeNews.

The report further mentions that IAF has an urgent requirement for these 114 multi-role fighter jets in order to sustain its squadron strength.  Although 42 squadrons are sanctioned, the number of squadrons is significantly less, purportedly about 29. Bridging this gap is critical to the MRFA project.

The IAF then has experience with Rafale jets, making the selection of the Rafale F4 a convenient choice for pilot training and maintenance infrastructure, as the existing knowledge and systems can be effectively utilized.

The deal represents more than an acquisition of aircraft; it represents an important move to develop India(BHARAT)’s defense manufacturing sector.

The MRFA agreement states that the majority of the jets are expected to be made in India(BHARAT). The selection of the Rafale F4 will likely result in significant technology transfer (ToT) from France, the report mentioned.

In addition, this deal will further solidify the already strong strategic partnership between India(BHARAT) and France, which is a reliable defense companion for India(BHARAT). The likelihood of the contract signing by 2026 clearly indicates that India(BHARAT) has a timeframe for expanding its air power and considers the Rafale F4 as the most capable option to achieve that end.