Representative image of a Rafale fighter jet.
Credit: PTI file photo
Hyderabad: In a move that significantly strengthens India's aerospace manufacturing capabilities, Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) on Thursday have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture Rafale fighter aircraft fuselages domestically in Hyderabad for India and also other global markets.
This is the first time that Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France marking a historic milestone for India's defense manufacturing sector.
The partnership will see TASL establish a state-of-the-art production facility in Hyderabad to manufacture critical structural components of the Rafale, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section.
The deal will see the first fuselage sections roll out by FY2028 with the facility expected to deliver up to two complete fuselages per month at full capacity.
This development comes at a strategic time, as India finalised a $7.4 billion agreement to acquire 26 Rafale jets for its navy in April 2025, complementing the existing fleet of 36 Rafale aircraft in service with the Indian Air Force.
The new manufacturing capability will not only serve India's growing defense needs but also position the country as a key supplier for global Rafale markets.
"For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements," said Dassault Aviation, Chairman and CEO Eric Trappier.
He added the signing of these contracts reflects Dassault Aviation’s strong commitment to India’s ‘Make in India’ and AtmaNirbhar initiatives. This partnership aims to strengthen India’s position as a key player in the global aerospace supply chain while supporting its goal of greater economic self-reliance.
“This partnership marks a significant step in India’s aerospace journey. The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems’ capabilities and the strength of our collaboration with Dassault Aviation. It also reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that can support global platforms,” said, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Sukaran Singh.
With over 10,000 military and civil aircraft including 2,700 Falcons delivered in more than 90 countries over the last century, Dassault Aviation has built up expertise recognized worldwide in the design, production, sale and support of all types of aircraft, ranging from the Rafale fighter, to the high-end Falcon family of business jets, military drones and space systems.