Dassault Aviation, a manufacturer of military and civil aircraft, and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture Rafale fighter aircraft fuselages in India. As part of the deal, a dedicated manufacturing facility will be established in Hyderabad to produce fuselage sections for both Indian and international markets.
The new facility will manufacture several key structural components of the Rafale aircraft, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section. Production is expected to begin in FY2028, with a planned output capacity of up to two complete fuselages per month.
“For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. 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,” said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.
“This partnership marks a significant step in India’s aerospace journey. 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,” said Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of TASL.
Dassault Aviation designs, manufactures, and supports military and civil aircraft, including the Rafale fighter and Falcon business jets. In 2024, the company reported revenues of EUR 6.2 billion and employs 14,600 people.
Tata Advanced Systems Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, provides aerospace and defence solutions. It is involved in multiple areas including aerostructures, airborne systems, land mobility, and command and control platforms, and partners with several international defence and aerospace firms.