36 figures is an absurd figure for 1) the IAF and 2) a fighter like the Rafale.
1) The IAF is a HUGE airforce and growing every year, operating across a vast nation in an ever increasing number of bases. It simply would not be economical to induct such a feeble number (36). This may be enough for the Egyptians or Qatar but not nearly enough for the IAF. 36 isn't even enough for 2 SQNs forth of birds- the IAF's SQNs usually are made up of 18-20 jets but they also ensure they have war reserves so the 36 figure does not remotely fit with their practices.
2) Your point about that these 36 Rafales are being procured for special SQNs such as nuclear strike has been the assumption of a few as the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) have stated they require a similar number (40) for airborne nuclear delivery platforms. However, it makes little (to no) sense to induct a fighter as capable and expensive as the Rafale for this role. Given its much celebrarted Multi-role/"Omni" role capabilties the majority of the Rafale's utility would be lost in such a limited mission profile to the point it doesn't make sense to induct them for such a limited role.
+ The fact is the SFC may say they need these birds but who needs them more- the SFC who is seeing their capabilties expand manifold with the induction of the AGNI V, devlopment of the K series SLBMs and their mother vessel (Arihant class SSBNs) or the mainstream IAF who are STILL still flying the ancient MiG-21s and 27s and seeing their SQN strength put at risk?
As you (and the PM of India) have said, 36 is to meet the immediate needs of the IAF. Talks are on for many many more...
@FrenchPilot I have seen what you posted the other day about forgetting the IAF was even negotiating for Rafales but let me give you some historical context to maybe relight your interest in this deal. When India first signed up for the Su-30MKI they only signed a contract for some 40 MKIs to begin with, fast foreward around 15 years later and the IAF has 272 MKIs on order and India's economy is FAR greater today then it was in the past. The idea that the IAF will only get 36 Rafales makes me laugh. Any one using even a modicum of common sense will see how foolish this idea is really....
As you have said- the chances of another new fighter serving alongside the Rafale is remote.In fact, it is so laughable that it can be ruled out outright.
Impossible to speculate on costs right now but I am prepared to be pleasantly surprised given this is a govt-govt deal and there seems to be a far more strategic angle to this deal now that was not present before. I think the French side are fuly prepared to offer "sweetners" for this.
As for MII, I would say- watch this space
@PARIKRAMA is probably more informed of this element than I am.
V/STOL offers little utility to India.
And the end result? The Indian side can pretend to consider these offeres seriosuly (as the DM has been doing) and the French side can pretend to take them seriously and the two come to an attractive deal for the Rafale sale to India.
If Boeing is offereing to build F-18s in India you had better know the Dassualt is offering the same, the fact that they have not publicaly stated as much makes it all the more intriguing
The fact is one of the most decisive PMs in India's history who enjoys the most power (thanks to a clear majority in the lower house of Parliament) has personally crafted this Rafale deal AND has personally promoted his pet project- Make in India. To think that he would not be working to get the Rafale MII is just......
![[Bregs]](/data/avatars/m/148/148509.jpg?1491816884){kind=avatar}
, IAF tantrums in LCA and govt approach in MRCA has made new fighter jets acquisitions a big joke
We could use it when our runways are bombed or in no run way environment especially from our vast majority of islands. Making them like permanent UN sink able Aircraft carriers. It's just my wishlist for our armed forces 
