Dassault, Tata to Build Rafale Fighter Fuselage in India

• Dassault and Tata signed deals to produce Rafale fuselages in India.
• Tata will set up a Hyderabad plant, with production starting in 2028.
• The move boosts ‘Make in India’ and strengthens global supply chains.

Regarding Production Transfer Agreements, Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems have signed four agreements for the manufacture of Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage components for the Indian and worldwide markets.

With this, Tata Advanced Systems will sit down a major aerospace manufacturing activity in India and global supply chains. Further, Tata Advanced Systems will set up a production plant in Hyderabad for the manufacture of critical structural sections of the Rafale, including rear fuselage lateral shells, rear section complete, central fuselage, and front section.

Eric Trappier, Chairman & CEO of Dassault Aviation said, "For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. 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".

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Dassault Aviation considers the plant a major investment in India's aerospace infrastructure and high-precision manufacturing capabilities. Production shall commence in the year 2028, with the facility aspiring to deliver up to two complete fuselages monthly, which will help India find its equilibrium in the aerospace sector globally.

"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", said Sukaran Singh, CEO and Managing Director, Tata Advanced Systems.

"It also reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that can support global platforms", he added.

Dassault Aviation stated, "The signing of these contracts reflects Dassault Aviation’s strong commitment to India’s ‘Make in India’ and AtmaNirbhar initiatives. This partnership aims to strengthen India’s position as a key player in the global aerospace supply chain while supporting its goal of greater economic self-reliance".