The Indian Air Force has issued a maintenance support contract for all 36 Rafale fighter jets, countering Pakistan's claims that India lost Rafale aircraft during Operation Sindoor in May 2025.
According to the contract, Air Headquarters has sought a five-month bridge support package from French companies Dassault Aviation and Safran Aircraft Engines. The package will cover maintenance, spare parts, consumables, and technical support for the entire Rafale fleet beyond September 18, 2026, until a long-term agreement is finalized.
The Request for Proposal (RFP) clearly mentions support for all 36 Rafale aircraft acquired under the 2016 India-France deal, indicating that the full fleet remains operational.
The proposal is based on 150 flying hours per aircraft annually, amounting to a total of 2,250 flying hours over five months. The development is being viewed as fresh evidence dismissing claims that any Rafale jets were lost during Operation Sindoor.
