India to Manufacture Rafale Fighter Aircraft Fuselages
Tata and Dassault Team Up for Advanced Manufacturing
India’s ‘Make in India’ defence projects have taken a big step forward. Tata Advanced Systems will now make Rafale fighter aircraft fuselages in India. This is a first. These parts have never been made outside of France before.
What the Collaboration Means
- Tata Advanced Systems has signed four production agreements with Dassault Aviation.
- They will make Rafale fighter aircraft fuselages in India.
- This is the first time these parts will be made outside of France.
Dassault calls this a big investment. It will create a key center for precision manufacturing in India’s aerospace sector.
New Manufacturing Facility in Hyderabad
The collaboration includes setting up an advanced manufacturing facility in Hyderabad. This unit will produce essential parts of the Rafale, including:
- Lateral shells of the rear fuselage
- Complete rear section
- Central fuselage
- Front section
The fuselage is the main body of an aircraft. It is a long, hollow structure that connects different parts of the aircraft. It is designed to be lightweight yet strong.
When Production Starts
Production of fuselage sections will begin in FY2028. The facility aims to produce two complete fuselages every month.
What Key Figures Say
Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, said:
“This is a big step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Our local partners, including Tata Advanced Systems, will help us meet our quality and competitiveness requirements.”
Sukaran Singh, CEO and Managing Director of Tata Advanced Systems, added:
“This partnership is a big step for India’s aerospace journey. Making the complete Rafale fuselage in India shows the trust in our capabilities. It also shows the strength of our collaboration with Dassault Aviation.”
Boosting India’s Aerospace Manufacturing
This collaboration aims to boost India’s position in the global aerospace manufacturing network. It also supports India’s goal of economic independence.
