Indian media: New Delhi is looking to buy 114 Rafale fighter jets.
The Indian newspaper The Tribune (India) reported that the Indian Air Force (IAF) has proposed to the Ministry of Defense to purchase 114 Rafale fighter jets to strengthen its air force.
The Indian Air Force, which is looking for multi-role fighter jets, has asked the Ministry of Defense to initiate the process of purchasing this number of fighter jets.
The Indian Air Force currently has 36 Rafales and the Navy has ordered 26.
The Tribune added: The Indian Air Force urgently needs new fighters because with the retirement and decommissioning of two MiG-21 squadrons on 4th Mehr 1404 (26th September), its air force strength will be reduced to 29 squadrons (air battalions), which is the lowest level of the Indian Air Force’s strength in the past six decades.
The report indicates that with this situation, the Indian Air Force is now able to urgently recruit two additional squadrons of about 36-38 fighter jets.
The Tribune wrote: India’s Cabinet Security Council (CCS) has determined the procurement of 42 squadrons to prepare for a possible two-front war with Pakistan and China.