India clears Rs 3.6 lakh crore defence boost; 114 Rafale jets get AoN ahead of Macron visit
The IAF currently operates 36 Rafale jets inducted under an earlier agreement with France
PTC Web Desk: India on Wednesday took a major step towards expanding its military capabilities, with the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) granting Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for a range of defence projects estimated at nearly Rs 3.60 lakh crore. The headline proposal involves the procurement of 114 Rafale fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The DAC, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared the proposals as part of a wider effort to address capability gaps and accelerate modernisation across the three services. The Rafale programme, valued at around Rs 3.25 lakh crore, will now require approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The move comes shortly before French President Emmanuel Macron’s scheduled visit to India, where defence cooperation is expected to feature prominently in discussions.
The proposed acquisition falls under the Multi Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) programme aimed at strengthening the IAF’s combat fleet. Officials indicated that a portion of the aircraft will be delivered directly from France in ready-to-fly condition, while the majority will be produced in India through a strategic partnership model.
The arrangement is expected to include transfer of critical technologies, with French aerospace major Dassault Aviation working alongside Indian industry partners. Engine manufacturer Safran and avionics firm Thales are also likely to be involved in technology collaboration. Over time, the indigenous share in manufacturing is projected to rise significantly.
The IAF currently operates 36 Rafale jets inducted under an earlier agreement with France. Defence officials believe that expanding the fleet will improve operational flexibility, streamline logistics and boost long-range strike capability.
In addition to the fighter aircraft, the Council cleared advanced combat missile systems designed to enhance precision strike capability against ground targets at extended distances.
Another notable approval concerns the acquisition of a High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) platform. Operating in the upper reaches of the atmosphere for extended durations, the system will support intelligence gathering, surveillance, electronic monitoring and communication tasks. Defence planners see it as a relatively economical option for persistent monitoring without relying solely on satellites.
For the Indian Navy, the DAC approved the procurement of six more Boeing P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft. These aircraft are central to anti-submarine operations, maritime domain awareness and surveillance missions. The Navy already operates a fleet of P-8Is and has relied on them extensively for strategic monitoring.
The council also cleared a proposal for a 4 MW Marine Gas Turbine-based Electric Power Generator to be developed under the Make-I category, underscoring the emphasis on domestic defence manufacturing.
The Army received AoN for the induction of anti-tank mines aimed at reinforcing defensive positions against armoured formations. Additionally, proposals to refurbish and extend the service life of T-72 tanks, Infantry Combat Vehicles (BMP-II) and Armoured Recovery Vehicles were approved.
The Indian Coast Guard will also procure Electro-Optical and Infra-Red systems for its Dornier aircraft to improve coastal surveillance and response capability.
Acceptance of Necessity marks the beginning of the acquisition process. Following political clearance from the CCS, detailed negotiations and contract finalisation will follow. Expenditure for these projects is expected to be distributed over several financial years.