Rafale Fuselage To Be Made In India Under Tata-Dassault Pact

According to Dassault Aviation, the partnership involves a significant investment to set up a precision manufacturing hub in India, which is expected to become a strategic element

As part of this collaboration, Tata Advanced Systems will develop a state-of-the-art production facility in Hyderabad

Source : PTI

In a major stride for India’s defence manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has signed four key Production Transfer Agreements with French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation. These agreements pave the way for local manufacturing of Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage components — a historic first, as these parts have until now only been produced in France.

According to Dassault Aviation, the partnership involves a significant investment to set up a precision manufacturing hub in India, which is expected to become a strategic element of the global aerospace supply chain.

Hyderabad Plant To Build Entire Fuselage Sections

As part of this collaboration, Tata Advanced Systems will develop a state-of-the-art production facility in Hyderabad. The plant will be responsible for fabricating major fuselage segments of the Rafale jet, including the front, central, and rear sections, as well as the lateral shells of the rear fuselage. These components form the core structure of the fighter aircraft, serving as the framework that connects its various systems while ensuring lightweight durability. Production is slated to begin in the fiscal year 2028, with the plant targeting an output of two complete fuselage units per month, according to The Economic Times Report.

Strengthening Local Capabilities And Global Integration

“This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale, and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements,” said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.

Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD of TASL, called the collaboration a milestone for India’s aerospace sector. “This partnership marks a significant step in India's aerospace journey. The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems' capabilities and the strength of our collaboration with Dassault Aviation. It also reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that can support global platforms,” he said.