India has taken a decisive step towards strengthening its military capabilities by approving a procurement package estimated to total approximately $40 billion. The package includes the acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter jets and six P-8I maritime patrol aircraft.
The decision was approved by the country’s Defense Acquisition Council and includes plans for the Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard.
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Approximately 90 of the 114 Rafale aircraft manufactured by Dassault Aviation will be produced in India under the MRFA program, expanding on a contract for 36 aircraft signed in 2016. The Navy has already ordered 26 carrier-based Rafale-M aircraft, with delivery expected in 2029 or later. The package also includes the Scalp cruise missile, paving the way for further integration of indigenous weapons systems.
The agreement, which is likely to receive further momentum from French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to India, is expected to strengthen cooperation between the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and Safran to develop a new engine with a thrust of more than 120 kN. This engine is planned for India’s future AMCA fifth-generation fighter jet.
In addition, the Navy plans to acquire six additional Boeing P-8I Poseidons to operate in conjunction with its existing fleet.
By the 2030s, India is expected to have one of the largest maritime patrol systems in the region, including MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones and C-295-based aircraft. This strengthens the strategy’s focus on continuous monitoring and protection of strategic sea areas.
source:Naval News | Photo: X @Boeing_In | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by editorial staff
🇮🇳 BIG DEFENCE MOVE
The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Rajnath Singh, clears a massive boost to India’s combat power: ✈️ 114 Rafale fighters for the Indian Air Force. 🛩️ 6 P-8I maritime patrol aircraft for the Indian Navy. 🚀 SCALP long-range cruise missiles approved.… pic.twitter.com/Mta1jx4L0E — TheGlobalDecoder (@TGD_06) February 12, 2026
