The Indian Air Force (IAF) has urged the government to sign a direct deal with France to acquire more Rafale fighter jets, accelerating its long-pending plan to procure 114 multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA). Most of these jets are expected to be produced domestically under the ‘Make in India’ initiative in partnership with foreign manufacturers, Firstpost reported.

According to government sources, the IAF will soon seek initial approval for the MRFA project from the Defence Acquisition Council, led by Rajnath Singh. A source confirmed the urgent need for additional Rafales to address the shrinking number of fighter squadrons. The government will make a final decision once the project reaches the council for approval.