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Rafale at the Core of India’s Air Power Strategy
In this episode of Carnegie Insights, the focus is on the Indian Air Force’s push for 114 additional Rafale fighter jets, as the proposal clears key procedural milestones within India’s defence procurement system. The discussion explains why Rafale has emerged as the most practical solution to India’s growing fighter squadron shortfall, the stalled MRFA process, and how additional Rafales fit into the IAF’s long-term force structure alongside the LCA and AMCA programs.
By Dinakar Peri
Published on January 22, 2026
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