French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation has signed four agreements with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) to produce the Rafale fuselages in India.
The deal marks a major step in localising the manufacturing of the highly regarded fighter jet.
As per the agreement, the first fuselage sections will roll off the Hyderabad assembly line in 2028.
“This facility represents a significant investment in India’s aerospace infrastructure,” the companies said in a joint press release. It will act as a critical hub for precision manufacturing.
Under the deal, TASL will set up a cutting-edge production plant in Hyderabad. This facility will manufacture key structural parts of the Rafale fuselage, including:
- Lateral shells of the rear fuselage,
- Complete rear section,
- Central fuselage, and
- Front section
First Fuselages To Roll Out By 2028
The facility is expected to deliver up to two full fuselages per month.
Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, called this development a decisive step.
“This is the first time Rafale fuselages will be made outside France. This strengthens our supply chain in India and supports our quality and competitiveness goals,” he said.
Trappier added that expanding partnerships with local players like TASL will play a key role in the successful ramp-up of Rafale production.
Dassault’s focus remains on maintaining high standards and meeting global requirements.
Deepening Indo-French Defence Ties
Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD of TASL, said the partnership reflects the growing trust in Tata’s capabilities.
“The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India is a milestone. It shows the strength of our collaboration with Dassault and the progress of India’s aerospace sector,” he said.
Singh added that the project proves India’s ability to support global platforms with a robust manufacturing ecosystem.
Last month, India and France signed a deal for 26 naval variants of the Rafale jet. The ₹63,000 crore agreement includes 22 single-seat Rafale M fighters and four twin-seat trainers.
The Cabinet Committee on Security, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the deal earlier this month.
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