Rafale Fuselage Production Expands Beyond France
Dassault seals an exceptionally strategic partnership with India through the Rafale deal
In a groundbreaking move, Dassault Aviation, the renowned aeronautics powerhouse, has formed an alliance with Tata Advanced Systems, the defense and aerospace division of Indian conglomerate Tata. This partnership signifies the first time that Rafale fuselages will be manufactured outside of France.
According to Le Dépêche, four production transfer agreements were formalized on June 5, setting the stage for India's production of Rafale fuselages for both Indian and international clients. A manufacturing hub is set to be established in Hyderabad, to churn out critical parts of the Rafale, such as the lateral bodies, rear fuselage, and central and front sections. Production of these components is slated to commence by 2028, with the facility capable of producing up to two complete fuselages per month at capacity.
Setting Sights on Increased Delivery Rates
Currently, around 150 Rafales remain to be delivered, with the Merignac plant in France producing two per month. This new manufacturing site in India is expected to enable Dassault Aviation to reach an objective of four monthly deliveries by 2028-2029, possibly even five in the long term.
This strategic partnership comes at a time when the Rafale has faced a significant setback: Colombia opted for the Swedish Gripens over the French aircraft, snubbing an order of 16 aircraft meant to replace outdated Israeli Kfir fighters. Despite the Colombian presidency praising the Rafale as the best option for the country in terms of price, efficiency, and operability, the deal ultimately fell through.
Timeline of Indian Rafale Fuselage Production
- 2025: Announcement of partnership between Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems, marking the start of a dedicated manufacturing facility for Rafale fuselages in Hyderabad.
- FY2028: Expected commencement of production of Rafale fuselage components, with an initial capacity of two complete fuselages per month.
Bolstering the Global Supply Chain
This collaboration is seen as a pivotal step in reinforcing Dassault Aviation's supply chain in India, providing a significant boost to the ramp-up of Rafale production. Moreover, this move underscores India's rising role in the global aerospace manufacturing sector and supports Dassault's global delivery schedule by integrating local production into its supply chain.
In terms of broader production increases, Dassault Aviation aims to deliver three aircraft per month in 2025, reaching four per month from 2028 to 2029. This expansion is underpinned by supply chain efficiency improvements, which the India partnership plays a significant role in achieving.
All in all, the manufacturing of Rafale fuselages in India will boost Dassault Aviation's global production capacities, ensuring both local and international delivery schedules are maintained.
Investment in technology will play a crucial role in the escalation of Rafale production rates, with the new manufacturing site in India leveraging advanced production techniques to meet the objective of four monthly deliveries by 2028-2029. Tata Advanced Systems, the Indian partner, will contribute a significant portion of the technology required for the production of Rafale fuselages.