In a boost for ‘Make in India’ defence projects, Rafale fighter aircraft fuselage will now be manufactured by Tata Advanced Systems in the country. Tata Advanced Systems has entered into four Production Transfer Agreements with Dassault Aviation for manufacturing Rafale fighter aircraft fuselages in India, marking the first instance of these components being produced outside of France.According to Dassault, this substantial investment will establish a crucial centre for precision manufacturing within India's aerospace sector.The collaboration involves Tata Advanced Systems establishing an advanced manufacturing facility in Hyderabad. This unit will produce essential structural components of the Rafale, comprising the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, complete rear section, central fuselage and front section, according to an ET report.Also Read | India’s defence exports surge to record high of Rs 23,622 crore in FY25; 34-fold increase from 2013-14The fuselage is the central body structure of an aircraft that serves as the main housing unit. It consists of a long hollow cylindrical structure that connects various components of the aircraft whilst maintaining minimal weight through its hollow construction. The specific design of the fuselage varies based on the aircraft's intended purpose.The fuselage sections are scheduled to begin production in FY2028, with the facility aiming to produce two complete fuselages monthly.

Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, said: "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, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements".Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said, "This partnership marks a significant step in India's aerospace journey. The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems' capabilities and the strength of our collaboration with Dassault Aviation. It also reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that can support global platforms.

"The collaboration intends to bolster India's standing in the international aerospace manufacturing network, whilst advancing its objective of economic independence, according to Dassault.Also Read | ‘Make in India’ defence boost: Advanced version of BrahMos missile may be manufactured in Uttar Pradesh; India & Russia begin talks