The Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised to expand its fleet with an additional 114 Dassault Rafale multi-role fighter jets under the long-delayed Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program. This development, gaining momentum as of early 2026, reflects a strategic pivot back to the French aircraft amid mounting operational pressures and squadron shortages.
The IAF currently operates only around 29-31 fighter squadrons against an authorized strength of 42-42.5, a gap exacerbated by the retirement of aging platforms like the MiG-21 and delays in indigenous programs such as the Tejas Mk1A. The shortfall has been highlighted by recent operations and regional threats from China and Pakistan, underscoring the urgent need for modern, reliable multi-role fighters capable of air superiority, deep strikes, reconnaissance, and integration with systems like India’s S-400 air defense network.
This push revives elements of the original Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) tender from the early 2010s, which sought 126 Rafales—including licensed production in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)—with Dassault emerging as the winner based on lowest lifecycle costs. However, the deal collapsed due to disputes over technology transfer, production responsibilities, and costs. In 2016, the government instead opted for an emergency government-to-government purchase of just 36 ready-to-fly Rafales at approximately ₹58,000 crore (around €7.87 billion or $8.8 billion at the time). Deliveries were completed by 2022, and the jets now operate from key bases like Ambala and Hasimara.
The return to Rafale under MRFA stems from several practical factors. The aircraft has proven its reliability through trials, exercises, and real-world performance, including compatibility with Indian-specific weapons like Astra missiles and BrahMos. Expanding the existing Rafale ecosystem simplifies logistics, training, and maintenance compared to introducing a new type. A direct government-to-government (G2G) arrangement with France is favored to bypass lengthy competitive tenders, enabling faster induction—potentially starting with flyaway deliveries and progressing to localized production, including fuselage manufacturing in India through partnerships like Tata Advanced Systems.
Recent reports indicate the IAF has strongly advocated for this approach, with the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) expected soon and negotiations potentially leading to a contract in 2026. Proposals include 90 Rafale F4 variants with options for 24 future F5 models, incorporating upgrades like enhanced electronic warfare suites and AESA radars.
Despite these advantages, the decision comes at a steep price. The estimated cost for 114 jets is around $22-25 billion (roughly ₹2 lakh crore or more), significantly higher than the original MMRCA’s projected $10-12 billion due to inflation, the smaller initial order lacking economies of scale, and the shift away from extensive licensed manufacturing toward imports or partial local assembly. Critics point out that this represents a missed opportunity for greater self-reliance, as the same budget could theoretically fund far more indigenous Tejas Mk-II fighters (potentially 250+ units at $70-80 million each, forming 12-13 squadrons versus just 6 for Rafale). Delays in indigenous production ramps and supply chain issues have further complicated alternatives.
Proponents argue that Rafale’s proven track record, strategic partnership with France (emphasizing sovereignty over alternatives like the U.S. F-35), and potential for substantial technology transfer and job creation justify the investment. As discussions intensify—possibly featuring during high-level Indo-French engagements—the choice reflects a pragmatic response to immediate threats, even as it highlights the long-term costs of procurement delays and strategic trade-offs in India’s quest for air power modernization.
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