The Indian Defence Ministry has flagged the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) proposal for acquiring 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA), deeming it incomplete and requiring further discussions with French manufacturer Dassault Aviation. While Dassault, which has previously supplied 36 Rafale aircraft to the IAF, remains a strong contender, the Ministry emphasizes the necessity for substantial indigenization, pushing for over 75% local content in production to align with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This includes demands for a majority of the aircraft to be manufactured in India, necessitating the establishment of a local assembly line likely in collaboration with Indian firms such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited or private players like Tata Advanced Systems and Adani Defence. The Ministry’s insistence on deeper local engagement reflects a strategic shift towards enhancing domestic manufacturing capabilities, with the goal of creating significant industrial value and fostering job creation in the defence sector. The operational urgency is underscored by the IAF’s dwindling squadron strength, now at around 30 compared to the sanctioned requirement of 42, highlighting the critical need for rapid induction of new aircraft. As negotiations progress, the outcome will significantly influence India’s defence landscape, potentially boosting local industries while addressing immediate aerial readiness challenges amid changing geopolitical dynamics.