India’s plan to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets has moved a step closer, with France formally submitting its proposal for the mega deal estimated at over ₹3.25 lakh crore. The proposal envisages 94 aircraft being manufactured in India under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, while the remaining jets would be supplied from France. In a parallel boost to defence cooperation, the Safran engine partnership for India’s indigenous AMCA fighter programme is learnt to be nearing key government approval.
