India Ascends in Defence Manufacturing: Rafale Fuselage Production to Begin in Hyderabad

Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Seal Landmark Partnership

Saint-Cloud, Mumbai, June 5, 2025 — In a landmark move that cements India’s rising dominance in global defence manufacturing, Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage in India. This collaboration not only supports India’s ambitions under the ‘Make in India’ and AtmaNirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiatives but also signifies the first-ever Rafale fuselage production outside of France.

First-Ever Rafale Fuselage Production in India

For the first time in history, the fuselage of the Rafale fighter jet — a cornerstone of modern aerial combat — will be produced on Indian soil. The manufacturing will include key structural sections such as the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section.

Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, emphasized the strategic significance of the move:

“This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale.”

Dedicated Manufacturing Facility to Rise in Hyderabad

As part of this agreement, Tata Advanced Systems will establish a state-of-the-art production facility in Hyderabad. The factory will be equipped to deliver up to two complete Rafale fuselages per month, with the first units expected to roll out by FY2028. The site will become a critical hub for high-precision manufacturing and a key asset in India’s growing aerospace industrial base.

Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD of TASL, remarked:

“The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems’ capabilities. It reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.”

Boosting India’s Global Aerospace Credentials

This strategic alliance highlights India’s emergence as a global player in high-end defence and aerospace manufacturing. It strengthens the country’s supply chain capabilities while reinforcing its role in supporting global platforms like the Rafale. Moreover, this initiative is a strong endorsement of India’s growing competence in producing complex aerospace systems at scale and with precision.

A Win for ‘Make in India’ and AtmaNirbhar Bharat

The partnership exemplifies India’s commitment to building a self-reliant defence manufacturing ecosystem that not only caters to national needs but also integrates seamlessly into global supply chains. With substantial technology transfer, local job creation, and export potential, the Dassault-Tata alliance sets a precedent for future international collaborations in the defence sector.

India’s aerospace ambitions have taken flight — and now, with Rafale fuselages to be proudly made in Hyderabad, the world is watching.

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