June 19, 2025 — In a significant boost to India’s aerospace manufacturing sector, Dassault Aviation of France and Reliance Group, led by Anil Ambani, have reaffirmed their commitment to begin local production of Falcon 2000 business jets in India by 2028. The project is part of their joint venture under Dassault Reliance Aerospace Limited (DRAL), aimed at strengthening India’s position in the global aviation supply chain.
The Falcon 2000, a long-range business jet known for its performance, comfort, and advanced avionics, will be manufactured at the DRAL facility in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The move aligns with the Indian government’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, which seek to localize high-end manufacturing and reduce dependency on imports.
Officials from Dassault Aviation confirmed that the Nagpur facility is being steadily upgraded with new infrastructure, training modules, and precision tooling required for jet manufacturing. “We are fully committed to establishing a world-class aerospace manufacturing hub in India,” a Dassault spokesperson stated. “The Falcon 2000 production will represent a major milestone in Indo-French industrial collaboration.”
The DRAL joint venture was established in 2017, initially supporting the offset obligations of Dassault’s Rafale fighter jet deal with India. Since then, the facility has been engaged in producing components for Falcon aircraft, including fuselage sections, wings, and empennages. Full assembly of the aircraft in India is now the next phase of this partnership.
Anil Ambani, chairman of Reliance Group, emphasized the strategic and economic importance of the project. “This initiative will not only generate employment but also nurture a high-skill ecosystem in India’s aerospace sector. We envision DRAL as a key player in the global supply chain of civil aviation,” Ambani said.
Industry analysts view the development as a promising step for India’s aviation ambitions. By 2028, DRAL aims to roll out fully assembled Falcon 2000 jets for both domestic and international markets. The facility is expected to employ over 2,000 skilled workers directly and many more indirectly through ancillary industries.
Experts also highlight the potential for technology transfer, workforce development, and increased exports. “This is a bold and necessary leap for India’s aerospace sector,” said aviation expert Kapil Kaul. “It signals a shift from mere component assembly to full-scale aircraft production.”
The Falcon 2000, with a range of over 6,000 kilometers and seating for up to 10 passengers, is already a popular choice among corporate and charter clients worldwide. Its manufacturing in India will likely reduce costs and offer shorter delivery timelines for regional buyers.
With preparations in full swing, Dassault and Reliance remain optimistic about meeting the 2028 timeline, marking a new era for Indian civil aviation manufacturing and strategic global partnerships.
