Winning Bizness Desk
Mumbai. In a major breakthrough for India’s aerospace ambitions, Reliance Aerostructure Limited has signed a landmark agreement with France’s Dassault Aviation to manufacture the Falcon 2000 business jets entirely in India. This marks the first instance that Dassault will be building these premium aircraft outside of France. The announcement was made during the Paris Air Show, highlighting the strategic nature of the partnership.
Nagpur Facility to Drive Production
The production of the Falcon 2000 will take place at the Dassault Reliance Aerospace Limited (DRAL) plant in Nagpur, Maharashtra. This facility, operational since 2019, has so far been involved in manufacturing select components for the Falcon jets. Under the new agreement, the entire jet will now be assembled at this plant. The first deliveries are expected by 2028, significantly boosting India’s aerospace capabilities.
Boost to Make in India and Employment
The project is seen as a key pillar supporting the Indian government’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat missions. Reliance officials stated that more than 50% of the components in the jets will be locally sourced. The initiative is expected to create thousands of jobs in Maharashtra and beyond, while also integrating Indian SMEs into the global aerospace supply chain.
Technology Transfer and Skill Development
Dassault will transfer core production technologies to DRAL, equipping Indian engineers and technicians with advanced aerospace manufacturing skills. This will not only strengthen India’s industrial base but also pave the way for future self-reliance in aviation manufacturing.
Reliance Expands Aerospace Footprint
This development marks the fourth major global collaboration for Reliance Infrastructure in the aerospace and defence sectors. The company has previously worked with Dassault on the Rafale fighter jet program, and partnered with France’s Thales Group and Germany’s Rheinmetall for defence equipment. Recently, it signed a ₹10,000 crore deal with Germany's Diehl Defence to manufacture precision munitions in Ratnagiri.
Strategic Comments from Dassault
Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier emphasized that setting up production in India is a strategic move that will strengthen their supply chain. He added that this partnership aligns with their vision to support India’s transformation into a global aerospace hub. Dassault already supplies Rafale jets to India, and the Falcon 2000 program deepens their long-term commitment.
Challenges Ahead for Reliance
While the deal is ambitious, it comes with challenges. Meeting the 2028 delivery deadline will require robust management of the supply chain, skilled labour, and stringent quality controls. The Falcon 2000 will also face competition from Gulfstream and Bombardier in the global market, where performance and consistency are critical. Additionally, given the political controversies surrounding the Rafale deal, this new partnership could draw scrutiny from opposition quarters.
About Falcon 2000
The Falcon 2000 is a luxury twin-engine business jet known for its long-range capabilities, speed, and comfort. With a non-stop range of approximately 6,000 km, it serves corporate leaders, celebrities, and even military clients. Its estimated cost is around ₹35 crore, making it a premium product in the business aviation space.
Story in 7 key points:
1. Reliance Aerostructure and Dassault Aviation will jointly manufacture Falcon 2000 jets in India.
2. It’s the first time Dassault will build the jet outside France.
3. Production will take place at the DRAL plant in Nagpur; deliveries begin in 2028.
4. Over 50% of jet components to be sourced from Indian suppliers.
5. The project aligns with India’s Make in India and self-reliance goals.
6. Thousands of jobs expected, with a strong focus on technology transfer and skill-building.
7. Reliance faces production, quality, and political challenges but strengthens its aerospace presence globally.
