Rajnath Singh Hosts French Defence Minister as Hammer Pact Takes Flight

At the 6th India–France Annual Defence Dialogue in Bengaluru, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and French Armed Forces Minister Catherine Vautrin announced a pivotal defence collaboration. The two nations will sign an MoU to manufacture Hammer missiles in India, marking a significant step toward defence self-reliance and industrial integration.

Key Highlights:

• Hammer Missile Deal: India and France to jointly manufacture Hammer missiles, enhancing Rafale fighter jet capabilities.
• 10-Year Defence Pact Renewal: Strategic roadmap extended to ensure long-term cooperation in defence and security.
• Industrial Collaboration: Focus shifts from off-the-shelf purchases to joint ventures and technology sharing.
• Strategic Significance: Strengthens India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• Global Partnership: Reinforces France’s role as a key defence partner for India, expanding cooperation beyond procurement.

This deal is expected to boost India’s defence preparedness while creating opportunities for technology transfer, local manufacturing, and reduced dependency on imports.

Sources: Firstpost, The Hindu BusinessLine, MSN, PTI