India is preparing to spend billions on 114 Rafale fighter jets in what could be its largest-ever defence purchase, but the decision has triggered a wave of ridicule from Pakistanis, many mocking the country’s past military losses and questioning the logic behind the deal.


The Indian government is reportedly set to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets from France at an estimated cost of 11.21 trillion PKR ($39 billion). Reports quoted sources as saying that 18 of the jets would be bought in “fly-away” condition from France, while the remaining 96 will be produced in India under a strategic partnership.


However, Pakistanis on social media were quick to question the logic and effectiveness of the purchase. One user commented, “O dear India, think you have to upgrade your pilots, not aircraft. A good pilot gives good results, not just a good machine.” Another pointed out, “4th largest economy, sir… can’t even make a single fighter jet.”

Several posts mocked India’s past military setbacks, with one saying, “Welcome back to be downed again by Pakistan,” while another added, “More aircrafts for Indians to crash.” 



Others highlighted concerns over cost and production timelines: “Wow, spending taxpayer money to buy a useless overpriced 4th-generation Rafale from the ’90s, which IAF will get in 2030s from an almost bankrupt country, which can only produce 10 Rafales a year. Congratulations, great job and decision-making.”


Some users were more direct, calling it “a scam” . One post read: “As a Pakistani, please buy 200 Rafales,” while others referenced recent skirmishes: “Didn’t Paki shoot these out of the air in the recent skirmish?”


Even humorous reactions dominated, with comments such as “6-0,” “Dreams of the Indians” and “No problem, it will be 114-0,” reflecting both sarcasm and nationalistic pride.


The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, is expected to meet on February 12 to give the crucial Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) approval for the deal. The decision comes ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to India later this month.