India Fighter Jets: Approval of 114 Rafale jets and Rs 3.60 lakh crore. Why is it being called Mother of All Defense Deals?

News India Live, Digital Desk: There is going to be the biggest increase in the strength of the Indian Air Force (IAF) so far. The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, has given the green signal to the purchase of 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA). This mega deal is being called the ‘Mother of All Defense Deals’ in defense circles. After all, why is this deal so special and how will it change India’s strategic position? Let us understand in detail.1. Why is this the ‘Mother of All Defense Deals’? This deal is a ‘Mother Deal’ not just because of its huge price tag, but also because of the conditions and technology attached to it: Huge Budget: A total of ₹3.60 lakh crore proposals have been approved for this entire process of 114 jets and other defense equipment. Emphasis on ‘Make in India’: The first 18 aircraft will come directly from France in a ‘fly-away’ condition, while the rest 96 aircraft will be manufactured in India only. This will be a revolutionary step in the field of indigenous defense production. Transfer of Technology (ToT): Under this deal, India will receive advanced aviation technology, which will help in the development of future indigenous fighter jets (like AMCA).2. Why is this deal important for the Air Force? The Indian Air Force is currently struggling with the shortage of fighter aircraft (Squadron Strength). Number of Squadrons: The Air Force currently has very few squadrons left as compared to the sanctioned 42 squadrons. Old aircraft like MiG-21 are being retired. Challenge on two fronts: The Air Force urgently needs at least 114 modern aircraft to counter the growing air power of China and Pakistan. Strengths of Rafale: Rafale has already proved its firepower during ‘Operation Vermillion’. Its Meteor and SCALP missiles are capable of destroying enemy territory without entering it.3. What else is included in the ‘Mother Deal’? Not just Rafale, DAC has approved several big projects for the three armies of India: S-400 missiles: Purchase of 288 new missiles from Russia to replenish the stockpile. P-8I surveillance aircraft: More reconnaissance aircraft for the Navy to keep an eye on China’s submarines in the sea. Modernization of tanks: Overhaul of the army’s old T-72 and BMP-II vehicles and Approval of upgradation.4. Psychological edge over China and Pakistan: After completion of this deal, India’s air borders will become completely impenetrable. After receiving 114 new Rafales, the Indian Air Force will have a fleet of about 150 Rafale aircraft, which will be more powerful and modern than any other country in South Asia.