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Key Points

Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems have signed groundbreaking agreements to manufacture Rafale fighter jet fuselages in India. The production facility in Hyderabad will initially produce two complete fuselage sections monthly, starting in FY2028. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in India's aerospace manufacturing capabilities and strategic defense partnerships. The move aligns with India's 'Atmanirbhar' and 'Make in India' initiatives, positioning the country as a key player in global aerospace supply chains.

Key Points: Dassault Tata Forge Rafale Jet Production in India

  • Tata Advanced Systems to build Rafale fuselage sections in Hyderabad
  • First fuselage sections expected by FY2028
  • Partnership supports Make in India initiative
  • Aims to strengthen global aerospace supply chain
2 min read

Dassault Aviation, Tata Advanced Systems to manufacture Rafale fuselage in India

French-Indian aerospace partnership launches Rafale fighter jet manufacturing in Hyderabad, boosting India's defense manufacturing capabilities

"For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France - Eric Trappier, Dassault Aviation CEO"

Mumbai, June 5

In a major development, French major Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited on Thursday signed four production transfer agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage in India, marking a significant step forward in strengthening the country’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities and supporting global supply chains.

Tata Advanced Systems will set up a cutting-edge production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the Rafale, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section.

The first fuselage sections are expected to roll off the assembly line in FY2028, with the facility expected to deliver up to two complete fuselages per month.

"For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale, and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements," said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.

The signing of these contracts reflects Dassault Aviation’s strong commitment to India’s ‘Make in India’ and 'Atmanirbhar' initiatives.

This partnership aims to strengthen India’s position as a key player in the global aerospace supply chain while supporting its goal of greater economic self-reliance.

"This partnership marks a significant step in India’s aerospace journey. 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," said Sukaran Singh, CEO and Managing Director, Tata Advanced Systems Limited.

It also reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that can support global platforms, Singh mentioned.

In April this year, India signed a landmark Rs 63,000 crore deal with France to buy 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets, which will give added punch to the Indian Navy, amid growing security concerns over China flexing its maritime muscle in the Indo-Pacific region.

The procurement will proceed under an Inter-Governmental Agreement, ensuring direct deliveries without any intermediaries. The deal has been signed for 22 single-seater jets and four twin-seater trainers, with deliveries expected to be completed by 2031.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is fantastic news for Make in India! 🇮🇳 Finally our defense manufacturing is getting the boost it deserves. Tata's involvement gives me confidence - they've proven themselves in other sectors. Hope this leads to more such collaborations and reduces our dependence on imports.
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Priya M.
While this is a positive step, I hope the technology transfer is substantial and not just assembly work. We need to develop our own R&D capabilities rather than just being a manufacturing hub. The timeline till 2028 seems long - hope they can accelerate this given the security situation with China.
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Arjun S.
Hyderabad becoming the aerospace hub of India! First the Sukhoi facility now Rafale. This will create thousands of skilled jobs and boost local economy. Kudos to both Dassault and Tata for this partnership. Jai Hind! ✈️
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Sunita R.
Good initiative but the cost seems very high. 63,000 crores could have been used for education and healthcare too. Defense is important but we need balanced development. Also hope there's proper oversight to prevent any corruption in such big deals.
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Vikram J.
This is a game-changer for Indian aerospace! The Rafale is among the world's best fighters and manufacturing its fuselage here means we're moving up the value chain. Next step should be developing our own jet engines - that's the real test of Atmanirbharta in defense.
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Neha P.
As someone working in manufacturing sector, I'm excited about the skill development this will bring. But I hope they invest properly in training local workforce rather than bringing foreign technicians. We have talented engineers who just need the right opportunities. 🇮🇳

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