How India’s US$40 billion order for French Rafales will help local fighter jet makers

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Biman MukherjiFebruary 13, 2026 at 06:49 AM

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India has approved a US$40 billion purchase of defense equipment, including 114 Rafale fighter jets from France, to bolster its armed forces. This decision addresses the Indian Air Force's (IAF) diminished fighter squadron strength, currently at 29, which is significantly below the 42 considered necessary for potential conflicts with Pakistan and China. The acquisition aims to enhance the IAF's capabilities in a complex geostrategic environment. France's President Macron will visit New Delhi next week, highlighting India's importance as a major Rafale operator. The IAF already possesses 36 Rafales and has ordered 26 naval variants, with the fighter jet demonstrating strong performance in recent operations.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Operation Sindoor 40% Ravi Gopal Krishana Kapoor 40% France 50% China 60% Emmanuel Macron 60% Pakistan ×270% Rafale ×580% Indian Air Force (IAF) ×485% India ×590%

Keywords

rafale fighter jets 100% indian air force 90% defence equipment 70% fighter squadron strength 70% india 60% france 60% china 50% military tensions 50% pakistan 50% airforce day 40%

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South China Morning Post

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90%

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India

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rafale fighter jets indian air force defence equipment fighter squadron strength india france china military tensions pakistan airforce day

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