Aviation News – India has cleared a $39 billion purchase of 114 Dassault Rafale fighter jets, a major step to strengthen the Indian Air Force’s operational readiness and accelerate modernization of its combat fleet.
The decision was endorsed on February 12, 2026, by the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) under the leadership of Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The council granted an Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the Rafale Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, part of a broader package that also includes combat missiles and other military hardware. The acquisition aims to address squadron shortfalls and enhance India’s ability to counter evolving regional security challenges.
The Rafale is a twin-engine, multi-role fighter capable of air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance and nuclear deterrence missions. Known for advanced avionics, precision-guided weapons integration and high survivability, the aircraft is designed to perform across a wide spectrum of conflict scenarios, giving the IAF greater flexibility in both defensive and offensive operations.
