On India’s fighter jet acquisitions
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Defence technology· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Indian government approved the procurement of 114 Rafale fighter jets from Dassault Aviation, sparking a debate on the limitations of technology transfer regarding source code access.
Background
The deal is valued at approximately Rs 3.25 lakh crore for 114 Rafale jets from Dassault Aviation. While France committed to technology transfer, India faces restrictions on accessing critical source codes for electronic warfare and radar systems.
Facts for Prelims
- FactThe procurement deal for 114 Rafale jets is valued at approximately Rs 3.25 lakh crore.
- PostDassault Aviation is the French manufacturer of the Rafale fighter jet.
- S&TSource code restrictions limit India's ability to customize software and integrate sensors in the aircraft.
- FactTata Advanced Systems is the identified partner for increasing domestic content in the aircraft.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the challenges India faces in achieving 'strategic autonomy' in defense procurement despite 'Make in India' initiatives and technology transfer agreements.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Technological dependency: Restricted access to source codes for electronic warfare and radar systems limits software customization.
- Production bottleneck: Shift from assembly-heavy production to indigenous design ownership is required for true self-reliance.
- Strategic diversification: Need to balance technology partnerships across France, Russia, Israel, and the United States.
Keywords: Strategic Autonomy · Technology Transfer · Source Code Access · Make in India · Defense Procurement · Indigenous Integration
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.