India Near Major Deal for 114 Rafale Fighters Ahead of Macron Visit
January 12, 2026 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2026-1768214430558-1854
India and France are nearing a major deal for 114 Rafale fighters ahead of French President Macron’s visit in February 2026. The Indian Air Force is examining a government-to-government framework that would combine a large order with expanded local manufacturing, including a partnership between HAL and Safran for an engine production plant. This proposal may signal a significant expansion of defense industrial cooperation between the two countries.
Key Takeaways
- India and France are moving closer to a major follow-on Rafale agreement.
- The IAF is examining a government-to-government framework that would combine a large order with expanded local manufacturing.
- Talks are expected to accelerate ahead of French President Macron’s visit in February 2026.
Strategic Implications
A larger Rafale fleet backed by deeper industrial footprint in India may be seen as a pragmatic bridge until indigenous programs mature. This could indicate a shift towards co-development and local manufacturing, potentially altering the dynamics of defense industrial cooperation between France and India.