India demands Rafale code amid weapon integration hurdles
India is systematically replacing its Russian MiG fighters with French Rafales. However, they have recently expressed dissatisfaction due to Paris's refusal to share the source code of these aircraft, which complicates the integration of Indian weaponry, as reported by the Defense Express portal.
India is unhappy with France's stance, as they refuse to provide the source code for Rafale fighters. According to Indian media, the lack of access to the software complicates the integration of Indian weaponry, which is crucial for the national Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
the French denied access to Rafale source code
Indian media, such as Defence.in, emphasize that access to the source code would allow for faster integration of new missiles, such as Astra and Rudram. The Astra Mk1 has a range of about 68 miles (110 km), and after modernization, it is expected to reach about 99 miles (160 km). Rudram, in turn, has a range of 93 to 124 miles (150 to 200 km), with plans to increase to 186 to 217 miles (300 to 350 km).
The French company Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of the Rafale, is not opposed to the integration of Indian weaponry but does not want to lose control over the work. The integration would require a separate agreement, which may not suit India in terms of implementation time.
In light of the French refusal, India is considering alternative technical solutions, such as developing intermediary software that would enable integration without access to the source code. These solutions, while not optimal, may be necessary.
France is concerned that providing the code could set a precedent that would force them to take similar actions with other clients. Concerns also pertain to the competition posed by Indian missiles to European MDBA products.
India with Rafale fighters
Defense Express reminds us that India currently has fewer than 36 Rafale fighters and has ordered 26 more for $7 billion USD. They are soon planning to purchase 114 fighters under the MRFA program, where the Rafale is one of the favorites.
The French Dassault Rafale fighter has proven its effectiveness in combat operations for years. This 4th generation aircraft is designed to serve as both an air superiority fighter and a strike machine. Equipped with two Snecma M88-2 engines, the Rafale can reach speeds of up to about 1.8 Mach, which translates to roughly 1,367 mph (2,200 km/h). Its maneuverability is at a very high level.
