Top officials told The Indian Express that plans are to manufacture 90 of the 114 Rafale fighter jets domestically, with close to 50 per cent indigenous content. Earlier, an indigenous content of 30 per cent was discussed for the jets that were to be manufactured in India. “The acquisition of P8I aircraft will significantly boost the Navy’s combat/war-fighting capability of long-range anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance and maritime strike capability,” the Defence Ministry said. The procurement will assist in enhancing the efficacy of maritime surveillance capability of the ICG,” the statement noted. Grant of AoNs is the first step in the defence procurement process.

Source: Indian Express February 12, 2026 18:28 UTC