Dassault Aviation partners with Tata to manufacture Rafale fuselage for India, other markets

Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage in India, "marking a significant step forward in strengthening the country’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities and supporting global supply chains", the French planemaker said on June 5.

"This facility represents a significant investment in India’s aerospace infrastructure and will serve as a critical hub for high-precision manufacturing," said Dassault Aviation in a stock exchange filing.

Under the scope of the partnership, Tata Advanced Systems will set up a cutting-edge production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the Rafale, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section, added Dassault.

The first fuselage sections are expected to roll off the assembly line in FY28, with the facility expected to deliver up to two complete fuselages per month.

"For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale, and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements," said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.