New Delhi, June 5 — In a major boost to India’s aerospace manufacturing ambitions, Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture key structural components of Rafale fighter aircraft in India.
Under the agreements, TASL will establish a state-of-the-art facility in Hyderabad to produce critical fuselage sections, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, central fuselage, and front section of the Rafale aircraft, the companies announced on Thursday.
The first fuselage units are expected to roll off the assembly line in fiscal year 2028, with the facility targeting a production rate of up to two complete fuselages per month.
“This is the first time Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. It 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, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale and meet our quality and competitiveness requirements.”
Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD of TASL, hailed the collaboration as a milestone in India’s aerospace journey. “The production of complete Rafale fuselages in India reflects the growing trust in TASL’s manufacturing capabilities and the strength of our partnership with Dassault Aviation,” Singh said.
He added that the venture also represents “the remarkable progress India has made in building a modern and robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that supports global platforms.”
The move is aligned with India’s ‘Make in India’ and AtmaNirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiatives. Dassault said the contracts underscore its long-term commitment to supporting India’s strategic industrial goals.
The partnership is expected to enhance India’s position in the global aerospace supply chain and contribute to economic self-reliance through advanced manufacturing and technology transfer.
