Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) have signed four Production Transfer Agreements for the manufacture of Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage components in India. The move marks a major milestone for the country’s aerospace industry and a key step in supporting Dassault’s global supply chain.
New manufacturing hub in Hyderabad
Under the new partnership, TASL will establish a dedicated facility in Hyderabad to produce key sections of the Rafale fuselage. These include the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, central fuselage, and front section. Production is expected to begin in FY2028, with the site ultimately becoming capable of delivering up to two complete fuselages per month.
Until now, Rafale fuselages have always been manufactured in France, and this move underscores India’s push to grow its role in global aerospace manufacturing.
“For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India,” said Éric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation. “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.”
TASL CEO and Managing Director Sukaran Singh called the project a “significant step in India’s aerospace journey,” reflecting the country’s ability to support global platforms. “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.”
Supporting India’s fighter fleet ambitions
The announcement follows India’s confirmed $7.4 billion order for 26 Rafale Marine (Rafale M) aircraft for the Indian Navy. Signed on April 28, 2025, the deal includes 22 single-seat Rafale M fighters and four twin-seat trainers. The aircraft are intended to operate from INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, reinforcing its navy’s maritime strike capabilities.
While the new Hyderabad facility will contribute to the Rafale M program, its scope extends beyond this contract. The move is seen as strategic positioning ahead of India’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) competition, which calls for the procurement of 114 fighter jets. Dassault’s Rafale remains a strong contender for the deal.
Dassault Aviation’s press release highlights production plans not only for India but also for “other international markets”. This could include orders like the one Dassault secured in 2022 for 42 Rafale fighters in Indonesia, which may soon be expanded with an undisclosed number of additional aircraft.
