Tata Advanced Systems and Dassault Aviation Partner to Manufacture Rafale Fighter Jet Fuselages in India

In a landmark development for India's defense and aerospace sectors, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation have inked a historic agreement to manufacture the fuselage of Rafale fighter jets in Hyderabad. This collaboration marks the first time critical components of the Rafale jet will be produced outside France, showcasing India’s growing capabilities in advanced aerospace manufacturing and defense self-reliance.

Rafale fighter jet is seen parked on the tarmac during its induction ceremony at an air force station in Ambala, India, September 10, 2020. File Image/Reuters | Firstpost

Strategic Partnership to Boost Indigenous Manufacturing

The partnership revolves around four Production Transfer Agreements that enable the transfer of crucial technology and expertise required for manufacturing the Rafale fighter jet fuselage. TASL’s state-of-the-art facility in Hyderabad will produce key structural sections, including the front fuselage, central fuselage, rear fuselage, and lateral shells.

The manufacturing process is scheduled to begin in the 2028 financial year, targeting an initial production rate of two fuselages per month. This move is not only expected to enhance India's defense manufacturing ecosystem but also aims to position the country as a significant player in the global aerospace supply chain.

Speaking on the occasion, a senior official from Dassault Aviation said, “This partnership represents a milestone in Indo-French defense collaboration. Transferring the fuselage production to India reflects our confidence in Tata Advanced Systems’ manufacturing capabilities and India's commitment to 'Make in India'.”

Aligning with 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'

This collaboration is a key step in supporting the Government of India's flagship initiatives — 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India). By localizing the manufacturing of such critical defense components, India moves closer to reducing its dependency on imports and enhances its strategic autonomy.

TASL Managing Director and CEO, S. Krishnan, stated, “Our partnership with Dassault Aviation strengthens India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem. We are proud to manufacture Rafale fuselages that will not only serve the Indian Air Force but also meet global demand. This initiative aligns perfectly with our vision of making India a global aerospace hub.”

Economic Impact and Technological Advancements

The Hyderabad facility is expected to create substantial employment opportunities, foster skill development, and drive innovation in advanced manufacturing technologies. Besides fulfilling domestic requirements, the locally produced fuselages will also cater to international markets, highlighting India's potential as a global defense manufacturing hub.

According to defense analysts, this collaboration may open avenues for future aerospace projects, further integrating India into the global defense industrial base. The program will likely enhance supply chain resilience, cost efficiency, and timely availability of critical fighter jet components.

Building on a Strong Indo-French Defense Relationship

The Tata-Dassault partnership further consolidates the robust defense ties between India and France. In April 2025, India signed a ₹63,887 crore (approx. $7 billion) deal to procure 26 naval versions of the Rafale fighter jets, strengthening its maritime capabilities.

This deal complements the earlier procurement of Rafale jets by the Indian Air Force and underscores India’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces with advanced technology.

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence remarked, “Manufacturing Rafale fuselages domestically is a strategic milestone that will empower India to achieve greater self-reliance in defense production. It reflects our ongoing efforts to build indigenous capabilities in line with national security priorities.”

Conclusion

The collaboration between Tata Advanced Systems and Dassault Aviation to manufacture Rafale fighter jet fuselages in India is a significant step towards defense self-sufficiency and industrial growth. It symbolizes India’s emergence as a key aerospace manufacturing hub on the global stage.

By harnessing cutting-edge technology and local expertise, this partnership not only strengthens India’s defense manufacturing capabilities but also enhances its strategic autonomy. As production gears up in Hyderabad, the project is expected to catalyze economic growth, skill development, and technological innovation, contributing to India’s vision of becoming a leading defense manufacturing nation.

(Sources: Firstpost, Indian Express, Times of India)