Dassault Aviation, Tata Advanced Systems to Manufacture Rafale Fuselage in India
Hyderabad Facility to Mark First-Ever Rafale Fuselage Production Outside France
June 5, 2025 – Saint-Cloud, Mumbai: Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage in India, marking a major milestone in India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities and global supply chain integration.
As part of the agreement, TASL will establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Hyderabad to produce 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. This will be the first time Rafale fuselages are produced outside France.
The facility is expected to begin production in FY2028, with an estimated output of up to two complete fuselages per month.
(L-R): Mr. Masood Hussainy, Exécutive Director, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, and Mr. Bruno Coiffier, Senior Executive Vice President – Head of Purchase & Procurement, Dassault Aviation, at the official signing ceremony formalising the partnership.
Strengthening India’s Aerospace Ecosystem
Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, stated, “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 meet our quality and competitiveness requirements.”
Sukaran Singh, CEO and Managing Director of Tata Advanced Systems Limited, emphasized the significance of the partnership, saying, “The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India underscores the deepening trust in TASL’s capabilities and the strength of our collaboration with Dassault Aviation. It also reflects India’s remarkable progress in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.”
Rafale rear fuselage section to be manufactured in the Hyderabad facility. © DASSAULT AVIATION
Boosting ‘Make in India’ & Global Supply Chains
The agreement aligns with India’s ‘Make in India’ and AtmaNirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiatives, reinforcing the country’s position in the global aerospace supply chain while advancing its goal of economic self-sufficiency.
About Dassault Aviation
Dassault Aviation has delivered over 10,000 military and civil aircraft, including 2,700 Falcons, to more than 90 countries. The company specializes in the design, production, and support of aircraft such as the Rafale fighter, Falcon business jets, military drones, and space systems. In 2024, Dassault Aviation reported revenues of €6.2 billion and employs 14,600 people.
About Tata Advanced Systems Limited
A wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, TASL is a key player in India’s aerospace and defense sectors. The company provides integrated solutions across aerostructures, aeroengines, airborne platforms, defense systems, and land mobility. With partnerships and joint ventures with leading global aerospace firms, TASL is a critical supplier in the international defense supply chain.
This collaboration marks a significant leap in India’s aerospace manufacturing prowess, positioning the country as a vital hub for high-precision defense production.
