India’s Defense Acquisition Council cleared a landmark INR 3.2 tn (USD 35.9 bn) proposal to induct 114 Rafale fighter jets from manufacturer Dassault Aviation ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit next week, Hindu Businessline reports. The aircraft is used by MENA countries such as Egypt, Qatar and the UAE.

Why it matters: Of the 114 aircraft, 96 will be built in India through a technology transfer with the French manufacturer, positioning India as a regional maintenance and spare parts hub for the jets.

The agreement now awaits clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by the prime minister.

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