India to Pursue Record-Defence Deal Worth ₹3.25 Lakh Crore for 114 Rafale Jets

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India is set to take a major step in its defence modernization, with the Ministry of Defence planning to discuss a massive deal worth ₹3.25 lakh crore for the purchase of 114 Rafale fighter jets from France. According to a report by news agency ANI, a high-level meeting will be held this week to discuss the proposal, which would be the country's largest-ever defence deal. The deal, if approved, would increase the number of Rafale jets in the Indian military to 176, with the air force already having 36 and the navy having ordered 26. The proposal includes the acquisition of 12-18 Rafale jets in ready-to-fly condition, while the rest will be manufactured in India with an indigenous content of around 30 per cent. The move comes despite the United States and Russia offering their fifth-generation fighters, including the F-35 and Su-57, to the Indian Air Force. However, the Indian side is seeking to integrate Indian-made weapons and systems into the French aircraft under the government-to-government deal. The proposal was prepared by the Indian Air Force and was received by the Defence Ministry a few months ago. Once approved, it will need to be cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security. The deal is expected to address India's urgent need to induct fighter jets to counter growing threats in the region. The French side is also planning to set up a maintenance facility for the M-88 engines used by Rafale jets in Hyderabad. Indian aerospace firms, including Tata, are likely to be involved in the manufacturing process. This deal is part of India's broader plan to modernize its air force, which will also include the induction of indigenous fifth-generation fighter jets beyond 2035.