‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ Takes Flight with Rafale Deal: Dassault Aviation Partners With Tata For Fuselage Manufacturing; What It Means For India?

In a major boost to Make in India, Rafale fighter jets’ fuselage will be manufactured in India for the first time outside France. Dassault Aviation has partnered with India’s Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) to set up a dedicated facility in Hyderabad to manufacture fuselages for Indian and global markets. The French company has issued an official statement in this regard.

Both companies signed four Production Transfer Agreements on Thursday. The development will boost India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities. The facility will be a significant investment in India’s aerospace infrastructure and will serve as a critical hub for high-precision manufacturing.

“Under the scope of the partnership, Tata Advanced Systems will set up a cutting-edge production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the Rafale, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section,” Dassault Aviation said in a statement.

The first fuselage sections are expected to roll off the assembly line in the financial year 2028. As per the French company, the facility is expected to produce two complete fuselages per month.

Speaking on the development, Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, said, “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.”

Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said that the Indian company’s partnership with Dassault Aviation is a reflection of the remarkable progress India has made in setting up a modern and robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.

“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,” Singh stated.

Meanwhile, the French company emphasised that the signing of these contracts reflects its strong commitment to India’s ‘Make in India’ and Aatmanirbhar 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,” Dassault Aviation said.

Key Highlights of the Partnership

• First Production Outside France: This collaboration represents the first time Rafale fuselages will be produced outside of France. TASL will establish a state-of-the-art facility in Hyderabad to manufacture key structural sections of the French fighter jet, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section.
• Production Timeline and Capacity: The facility is expected to commence deliveries of fuselage sections in the 2028 financial year, with a target output of two fuselages per month.
• Global Supply Chain Integration: The fuselages produced will serve both Indian and global markets, providing an impetus to India’s defence production capabilities and integrating the country into the international supply chain for advanced military aircraft.

What This Partnership Between Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited Means for India

• Advancement of ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ Initiatives: This partnership aligns with India’s goals to boost domestic defence production and achieve greater self-reliance in this sector.
• Economic and Employment Opportunities: The establishment of the manufacturing facility is anticipated to create job opportunities and foster skill development in the region. It will enhance the local workforce’s expertise.
• Strengthening Indo-French Defense Relations: The collaboration reinforces the strategic partnership between India and France in the aerospace sector, building upon previous agreements such as India’s USD 7 billion deal to acquire 26 naval Rafale jets from France.
• Economic Growth: The partnership is expected to have long-term benefits for India’s defense preparedness and economic growth.