IAF likely to finalise 114-Rafale deal by March 2027

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh said on Saturday, 3 October, that India is likely to finalise the acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter jets from France by the end of FY2026-27 (March 2027). The deal, estimated at around Rs 3.25 lakh crore, is under price negotiation and was cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council in February. If concluded, it would expand India's Rafale fleet to 176 aircraft, including 36 already with the IAF and 26 Rafale-M jets ordered by the Navy.

Singh said the IAF requires 36 to 40 aircraft annually to address a shortfall in fighter squadrons, which currently stand at 29 against an authorised strength of 42. He noted that Russia has offered the Su-57 fifth-generation jet but no decision has been taken, and the IAF may consider foreign options if the indigenous AMCA programme faces delays. The first AMCA prototype is expected in 2028. Singh also said Pakistan's collaboration with China on fifth-generation fighters is a 'cause for concern' but not an immediate threat.