This unit will produce essential structural components of the Rafale, comprising the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, complete rear section, central fuselage and front section.
Dassault, TATA Will Manufacture Rafale Jet’s Parts
In a landmark development for India’s defence manufacturing sector, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has entered into four Production Transfer Agreements with Dassault Aviation, the French aerospace giant, to manufacture fuselages for the Rafale fighter aircraft in India. This collaboration marks the first time that Rafale fuselage components will be produced outside of France, significantly contributing to the ‘Make in India’ initiative in the defence and aerospace sector.
Establishing an Advanced Facility in Hyderabad
Under this partnership, Tata Advanced Systems will establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Hyderabad, dedicated to producing key structural components of the Rafale aircraft. These components include:
- Lateral shells of the rear fuselage
- Complete rear section
- Central fuselage
- Front section
The fuselage, being the central body structure of an aircraft, houses the cockpit, avionics, fuel tanks, and payload. It plays a crucial role in connecting all parts of the aircraft while maintaining a lightweight, aerodynamic structure.
Production Timeline and Scale
Production of these fuselage sections is set to begin in Financial Year 2028, with the facility aiming to manufacture two complete fuselages every month. This venture not only brings high-end technology and aerospace expertise to India but also creates a substantial opportunity for skilled employment and supply chain development.
Strategic and Industrial Significance
Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, emphasized the importance of this move by stating that it is a “decisive step” in strengthening Dassault’s supply chain in India. He praised Tata Advanced Systems as a major player in the Indian aerospace sector and expressed confidence in meeting the quality and competitiveness benchmarks of the Rafale program.
Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD of Tata Advanced Systems, highlighted that the project reflects growing global trust in India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities. He added that the partnership showcases India’s remarkable progress in building a modern and reliable aerospace ecosystem capable of supporting international defence platforms.
Boosting India’s Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Ambitions
This collaboration is a major milestone in India’s efforts to emerge as a global hub for aerospace manufacturing. It strengthens India’s position in the international defence supply chain and contributes significantly towards achieving economic self-reliance in defence production.
For defence aspirants and candidates appearing in the AFCAT 2 2025 exam, this development is a prime example of India’s strategic partnerships and technological growth in defence manufacturing, aligning with key topics under current affairs and defence industrial advancements.
Key Takeaways for AFCAT 2 2025:
- Rafale fuselages to be manufactured in India by Tata Advanced Systems in collaboration with Dassault Aviation.
- First time Rafale components will be made outside France.
- Facility to be established in Hyderabad; production starts FY2028.
- Marks a boost for ‘Make in India’ and self-reliance in defence.
- Strengthens India’s role in global aerospace supply chain.
This article can serve as an important update under the Current Affairs – Defence Sector section for AFCAT and other defence examinations.
