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India to acquire 114 new Rafale fighter jets from France under MRFA program

According to the Economic Times on January 10, 2026, India and France are finalizing negotiations for the possible acquisition of up to 114 Dassault Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force, with 90 jets in the F4 standard and an option for 24 in the future F5 standard. The discussions, which are taking place ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron’s scheduled February 2026 visit to India, include domestic manufacturing, engine work, and long-term sustainment infrastructure within India to address its declining fighter squadron strength. Read full defense news at this link...

The push for additional Rafales is directly linked to the Indian Air Force’s current force structure, which stands at 29 fighter squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42. (Picture source: French Air Force)



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