Despite Rafale Setback, Modi Govt Pushes for New Fighter Jet Deal with France

Despite the embarrassing failure of Rafale fighter jets during Operation Sandur against the Pakistan Air Force, the Modi government is moving forward with efforts to secure a new defense deal with France.

According to The Times of India, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is pushing the government to approve the purchase and local manufacturing of additional Rafale jets under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program. The plan aims to address a shortage in the IAF’s fighter squadron strength, currently reduced to 29.

Defense sources reveal that the IAF hopes to obtain preliminary approval from the Defence Acquisition Council within two months. The MRFA plan also envisions producing Rafales in India with foreign collaboration.

Critics say the move is illogical given the professional shortcomings exposed in Operation Sandur, where Pakistan’s J-10C jets outperformed India’s Rafale and Su-30MKI aircraft. Experts argue that wars are won not merely with advanced weaponry, but through pilot skill, training, and sound leadership—qualities allegedly undermined in the IAF by political interference, corruption, and the Hindutva-driven war rhetoric.