Negotiations over India’s proposed acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter jets are increasingly drawing comparisons with the earlier Su-30MKI program, which established domestic aircraft manufacturing capabilities. The new agreement is expected to emphasize local production, deeper technology transfer, and long-term supply chain independence. Lessons from the Su-30MKI project demonstrated how indigenous assembly and support infrastructure helped sustain operations despite global supply disruptions. The Rafale plan aims to expand localization while ensuring reliable lifecycle sustainment and industrial participation.
