What happened?
Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture Rafale fighter jet fuselages in India for both domestic and international markets. This marks the first time that Rafale fuselages will be built outside France. A dedicated facility will be established in Hyderabad to produce key structural components, including the front section, central fuselage, rear section, and lateral shells. Production is expected to commence in the financial year 2028, with a capacity to deliver up to two complete fuselages per month.
Why it matters to India
This collaboration supports the Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and aims to bolster self-reliance in the defence sector. The production of complete Rafale fuselages in India is a testament to the deepening trust between Dassault and Tata, and reflects India’s progress in building a modern aerospace manufacturing ecosystem. It also strengthens the supply chain in India, contributing to the ramp-up of the Rafale and meeting quality and competitiveness requirements.