New Delhi: In a landmark move that places India among the world’s elite aviation manufacturers, Dassault Aviation, the French maker of the Rafale fighter jet, has partnered with Reliance Aerostructure Limited (RAL) to produce the Falcon 2000 LXS Business Jet in India.
Announced at the Paris Air Show, the deal marks the first time Dassault will manufacture its Falcon series outside France—firmly establishing India as a serious contender in the global aerospace industry.
First-Ever Falcon Jet to Be Made in India by 2028
Under the agreement, a state-of-the-art assembly line will be set up at Dassault Reliance Aerospace Limited (DRAL) in Mihan, Nagpur. The first fully Indian-assembled Falcon 2000 is expected to roll out by 2028, targeting high-end clients like corporate leaders, celebrities, and government officials.
India Joins Elite Club of Jet Makers
With this development, India joins a select group of nations — including the USA, France, Canada, and Brazil — that manufacture luxury business jets. It’s a historic leap under India’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, which aim to boost indigenous manufacturing and global competitiveness.
What Makes the Falcon 2000 LXS Special?
Often dubbed the “Ferrari of the skies,” the Falcon 2000 LXS is a $35 million (₹300 crore) twin-engine business jet with a range of 4,000 nautical miles—enough to fly non-stop from New York to London. It features luxury interiors, advanced avionics, and industry-leading fuel efficiency and safety.
With over 2,700 Falcon jets delivered globally, Dassault’s decision to manufacture in India is a testament to the country’s rising aerospace capability.
Strategic Move for Dassault and Reliance
Eric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, said:
“This collaboration reflects our strong commitment to ‘Make in India’. DRAL will become our first Center of Excellence for Falcon jets outside France, making India central to our global production strategy.”
Anil D. Ambani, Chairman of the Reliance Group, added:
“This is a proud moment for India and a big leap for our aviation manufacturing capabilities. We are making world-class products in India, for the world.”
Massive Benefits for India
This partnership is expected to:
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Generate high-skilled jobs in manufacturing and aviation sectors
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Enhance India’s global reputation as a reliable manufacturer of complex, high-tech systems
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Boost exports and economic growth
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Integrate India into global aerospace supply chains, especially through manufacturing of parts for Dassault’s Falcon 6X and 8X models
Previous Collaborations and Expanding Reach
This isn’t the first joint venture between the two companies. Dassault and Reliance launched DRAL in 2017, and the new Falcon jet production line builds on years of successful cooperation.
Meanwhile, Reliance Defence, another subsidiary, recently signed a ₹10,000 crore deal with Germany’s Diehl Defence to produce advanced artillery shells in India—further solidifying India’s reputation as a defense and aerospace manufacturing hub.
Looking Ahead
The first Made-in-India Falcon 2000 will symbolize more than a business jet—it represents India’s growing ambition to lead in next-generation manufacturing. With the business jet market booming, India is well-positioned to become a preferred destination for global aviation giants.
“This is a defining moment for India,” said Anil Ambani. “And the world is watching