New Delhi, Delhi
A major development has emerged regarding fighter aircraft manufacturing in India. According to the Ministry of Defence, the agreement with France for the procurement of Rafale fighter aircraft will help establish a second fighter aircraft assembly line in India. The move is expected to provide fresh momentum to defence production and indigenisation in the country.
Speaking during a discussion on “Strategy for Capability: Building India’s Defence Edge” at Defence Conference 2026, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen India’s defence capabilities and expand domestic fighter aircraft manufacturing.
Rajesh Kumar Singh said that the Rafale is a proven and advanced fighter aircraft. He stated that, at India’s request, France has agreed to undertake a significant level of indigenisation in Rafale manufacturing in India. This is expected to pave the way for establishing a second production line for fighter aircraft in the country.
The Defence Secretary also clarified that the additional procurement of Rafale aircraft would not affect India’s indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft programme. The development and production of Tejas will continue through Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The government believes that manufacturing Rafale aircraft in India will strengthen the country’s defence manufacturing capabilities and help develop local technical expertise. It is also expected to further boost indigenisation across the defence sector.
India has been working for several years to expand domestic defence production and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. Against this backdrop, the proposed second Rafale production line is being viewed as an important component of the country’s broader defence manufacturing strategy.
