French aviation giant Dassault Aviation has proposed to manufacture the Rafale fighter jets entirely in India, significantly bolstering India’s self-reliance in defense. This initiative includes local assembly at the Dassault Reliance Aerospace Limited (DRAL) facility in Nagpur, with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) producing the entire fuselage in Hyderabad. The latest Rafale F4 jets will feature advanced technology and locally developed weapons systems from DRDO, enhancing India’s sovereign capabilities. The move aims to address the Indian Air Force’s fighter squadron shortfall while creating jobs and reducing costs. This strategy not only strengthens India’s defense manufacturing base but also positions the Rafale favorably against other contenders in the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft competition, ensuring India remains competitive in regional security dynamics.