India's concern over Rafale source code hampers arms integration
India is systematically replacing its Russian MiG fighters with French Rafales. However, recent reports highlight India's dissatisfaction with Paris's refusal to share the source code of these aircraft. This lack of access complicates the integration of Indian weaponry, according to a report on the Defence Express portal.
India is displeased with France's stance, as they refuse to provide the Rafale fighters' source code. According to Indian media, the absence of access to the software complicates the integration of Indian weaponry, an essential element of the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
The French denied access to Rafale source code
Indian media outlets, 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 approximately 109 kilometres, and after modernisation, it is expected to reach a distance of about 161 kilometres. Rudram, in turn, has an operational range of roughly 150 to 200 kilometres, with plans to extend it to 300 to 350 kilometres.
Dassault Aviation, the French company that manufactures the Rafale, is not opposed to the integration of Indian weaponry, but it is unwilling to relinquish control over the process. This integration would require a separate agreement, which may not be favourable to India in terms of implementation time.
In light of the French refusal, India is exploring alternative technical solutions, such as developing intermediary software to enable integration without needing the source code. Although these solutions are not ideal, they may prove necessary.
France is concerned that granting access to the code could establish a precedent, compelling them to take similar actions with other clients. There are also concerns about competition from Indian missiles against European MBDA products.
India with Rafale fighters
Defence 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 additional fighters under the MRFA programme, where Rafale is one of the leading contenders.
The French Dassault Rafale fighter has demonstrated its effectiveness in combat operations over the years. This 4th generation aircraft is designed to function as both an air superiority fighter and a strike platform. Equipped with two Snecma M88-2 engines, the Rafale can reach speeds up to about 1.8 Mach, approximately 2,200 kilometres per hour. Its manoeuvrability is notably high.
