In a major leap forward for Bharat’s defence manufacturing sector, French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation has signed four Production Transfer Agreements with Tata Advanced Systems Limited. This collaboration will see the establishment of a cutting-edge production facility in Hyderabad, dedicated to manufacturing the critical structural components including the front section, central fuselage, complete rear section, and the lateral shells of the rear fuselage fuselage sections of the Rafale fighter aircraft — not just for India, but for global markets as well.
This is the first time Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France, marking a strategic shift in Dassault’s global manufacturing footprint and a major endorsement of Indian industrial capabilities.
The production facility in Hyderabad is expected to roll out the first fuselage sections by FY2028, with a projected output of up to two complete fuselages per month.
Precision meets partnership ✈️⚙️
Dassault Aviation partners with Tata Advanced Systems to manufacture Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage for India and other global markets.#TataAdvancedSystems #DassaultAviation #Rafale #MakeInIndia #Aerospace #DefenceManufacturing… pic.twitter.com/MDLIOzXwxx
— Tata Advanced Systems Limited (@tataadvanced) June 5, 2025
The fuselage is the main body of an aircraft, forming its central structural component. It encloses the cockpit and provides space for passengers or cargo, depending on the aircraft type. Additionally, it acts as the core framework to which essential elements like the wings, tail assembly, and landing gear are mounted.
“This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India,” said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation. “Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, this effort will support the successful ramp-up of the Rafale programme.”
Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD of Tata Advanced Systems, noted, “This partnership signifies growing global trust in India’s defence ecosystem. Manufacturing complete Rafale fuselages in India reflects our deepening collaboration with Dassault and the maturity of our aerospace manufacturing base.”
The signing of the Production Transfer Agreements is being seen as a significant affirmation of the Indian government’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. Industry observers note that the move not only strengthens India’s ability to meet its domestic defence requirements but also positions the country as an emerging force in the global aerospace export market.
Post Operation Sindoor, this development represents a turning point in India’s defence preparedness and production autonomy. This agreement reinforces Bharat’s strategic shift from being a defence importer to becoming a competitive manufacturer and exporter.
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