French President Emmanuel Macron has come out swinging in support of Indias massive plan to buy 114 Rafale fighter jets, brushing off critics and calling the deal a cornerstone for the countrys defense future. In a candid interview with India Today at the close of his three-day visit to New Delhi, Macron didnt mince words. Rafale is absolutely key, he declared, questioning why anyone would oppose a move that bolsters Indias air power and economy. The €35 billion-plus agreement, cleared by Indias Defence Acquisition Council, promises not just cutting-edge jets but also local manufacturing that could create thousands of jobs.

Under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, 18 Rafales will arrive ready-to-fly from Dassault Aviation, with the remaining 96 built in India through partnerships boosting Make in India. Macron highlighted plans to ramp up indigenous content to 50% over time, drawing parallels to the Tata-Airbus C-295 project. This builds on Indias prior 36-jet Rafale purchase, addressing urgent needs amid border tensions with Pakistan and China.

Macron expressed bafflement at the backlash. Rafale makes your country stronger... Dont know why people criticise, he told reporters, emphasizing technology transfer and co-production perks over fully imported alternatives. The jets real-world prowess—from French strikes in Libya to Indias own operations—adds weight to his pitch.

This pact deepens a defense alliance thats already delivered submarines and helicopters. For India, its a step toward self-reliance, modernizing an aging air fleet while generating high-tech jobs in states like Uttar Pradesh. As South Asias rivalries intensify, Macrons visit underscores France as a preferred partner in a crowded global arms market. With final negotiations underway ahead of potential cabinet approval, the Rafale deal could redefine Indias aerial edge. Stay tuned for updates on this pivotal Indo-French collaboration.

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