India and France are transforming their longstanding defence partnership into a robust co-development framework under Make in India, highlighted by French President Emmanuel Macron's recent visit. Key deals in helicopters, engines, and innovation platforms signal deeper Indo-French collaboration in AI, space, and nuclear tech for 2026 Year of Innovation. This shift boosts local manufacturing while aligning on global issues like Indo-Pacific security.
India-France relations, anchored in defence for decades, now pivot toward Make in India initiatives that emphasize co-design, co-development, and co-production of advanced platforms. French President Emmanuel Macron's February 2026 visit to New Delhi marked this evolution, elevating ties to a special global strategic partnership. Discussions focused on Horizon 2047 Roadmap, covering defence, innovation, and regional stability.
Rafale procurement advances with significant local content mandates, while Tata-Airbus H125 helicopter final assembly line inauguration in Karnataka exemplifies the buyer-seller transition to joint manufacturing. SAFRAN collaborates with DRDO and Bharat Electronics on engine projects, reinforcing self-reliance in aerospace.
2026 as India-France Year of Innovation launches digital networks linking startups, incubators, and businesses in critical technologies like AI, space, and civil nuclear energy. Leaders committed to Small Modular Reactors cooperation, prioritizing safety and non-proliferation standards.
Key Developments
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India-France Innovation Network connects ecosystems for talent exchange in emerging tech.
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Rafale and helicopter deals mandate high local content under Make in India.
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SMR research ties DRDO with French Atomic Energy Commission.
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Elevated partnership underscores EU-India free trade and Indo-Pacific alignment.
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AI ethics, trust, and inclusion unite both nations' visions.
This partnership enhances India's strategic autonomy and France's Indo-Pacific footprint amid global shifts. It positions both for leadership in ethical AI and green energy transitions.
Sources: Hindustan Times, India TV News, New Indian Express