Aviation News – Safran is preparing to establish an aircraft engine assembly line in India as Paris and New Delhi advance talks over buying 114 additional Dassault Rafale fighters, a move that would deepen local industrial participation and strengthen defense ties between the two countries.
The French propulsion specialist, which manufactures the M88 engine that powers the jets built by Dassault Aviation, said it stands ready to localize production to meet India’s growing requirements for domestic manufacturing. Chief Executive Olivier Andriès confirmed the company will also source components from Indian suppliers, supporting the country’s broader aerospace and defense ecosystem as negotiations continue over the proposed fleet expansion.
By assembling engines locally and integrating Indian-made parts into the supply chain, Safran aims to shorten delivery timelines, improve maintenance support and reduce lifecycle costs. The approach would give the Indian Air Force faster access to spares and overhaul capabilities while transferring technical know-how to domestic industry, a key objective under India’s push for defense self-reliance.
“We are ready to build an assembly line in India and increase sourcing from local partners to support the country’s aerospace ambitions,” Andriès said, emphasizing that industrial cooperation is central to the potential fighter deal.
If finalized, the project would mark one of the most significant European aerospace manufacturing footprints in India and could pave the way for deeper collaboration in engine technology, maintenance and future programs. It may also strengthen Safran’s position in future Indian defense tenders beyond the Rafale fleet.
The planned investment underscores how local production, technology transfer, and strategic partnerships are becoming decisive factors in major defense contracts. For India, the move promises jobs and skills growth; for Safran and Dassault, it offers long-term access to one of the world’s fastest-growing military aviation markets.
