Indian Army Launches Operation Shiva 2025 to Safeguard Amarnath Yatra
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Recent reports indicate India might significantly scale back its proposed purchase of Dassault Rafale jets—potentially halving the previously envisioned 114‑aircraft MRFA deal—amid considerations to procure fifth‑generation fighters like the Russian Su‑57 or American F‑35, or to accelerate homegrown options. The move would represent a bold realignment in procurement strategy sparked by IAF needs and geopolitical signalling.
Officially, India is not in formal negotiations over either the F‑35A or the Su‑57E, according to Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, who stated that discussions on those jets remain “informal” and the focus is squarely on the indigenous AMCA project, due by the early 2030s. Still, Russian proposals for Su‑57E production in India—including substantial technology transfer and possible local assembly at HAL’s Nashik plant—have reportedly offered fast-track options for bolstering IAF squadron strength within a few years.
Meanwhile, analysts have urged India to stick with expanding Rafale F4 or Futures Rafale F5 variants under MRFA as a bridging solution, citing lifecycle cost-effectiveness, compatibility with existing systems, and proven performance in Indian service.
As of April 2025, India did sign a deal for 26 naval Rafale-M jets—a separate agreement worth roughly $7.4 billion, delivering 22 single-seat and four twin-seat fighters by 2030. In parallel, a partnership between Dassault and Tata Advanced Systems aims to produce Rafale fuselages in Hyderabad, with deliveries starting around 2028, further aligning with India’s “Make in India” goals.
With Indian Air Force squadron strength shrinking from the desired 42 to roughly 30, the pressure to modernise quickly is mounting. Cutting back on Rafale numbers could free budget and slot in fifth-generation capability, even as India accelerates Tejas production and pursues the AMCA stealth fighter path.
India’s evolving MRFA strategy thus reflects a delicate balancing act: supporting domestic defence innovation while evaluating cost-effective near-term options through strategic procurement alliances.
