The agreements and announcements during PM Modi’s visit mark a new chapter in India-France defense relations, reinforcing their position as trusted partners in military, technology, and regional security.
In a significant boost to their strategic partnership, India and France have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening military cooperation, expanding defense technology collaboration, and enhancing joint exercises. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France from February 10-12, 2025, both countries outlined an ambitious roadmap to strengthen their defense industrial cooperation, with a focus on joint production, technology transfer, and advanced military platforms.
Key Developments in Defense Cooperation
Recalling the deep and longstanding defence cooperation between France and India as part of the Strategic Partnership, President Macron and Prime Minister Modi welcomed the continuation of the cooperation of air and maritime assets in line with the ambitious Defence Industrial Roadmap agreed in 2024. Both leaders commended progress in collaboration in construction of Scorpene submarines in India, including indigenization, and in particular the work carried out with a view to the integration of DRDO developed Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) into P75-Scorpene submarines and the analyses conducted regarding the possible integration of the Integrated Combat System (ICS) into the future P75-AS submarines. Both leaders welcomed the commissioning of the sixth and final submarine of the P75 Scorpene-class project, INS Vaghsheer, on 15 January 2025.Both sides welcomed the ongoing discussions in missiles, helicopter engines and jet engines. They also welcomed the excellent cooperation between the relevant entities in the Safran group and their Indian counterparts. Prime Minister Modi also invited the French Army to take a closer look at the Pinaka MBRL, emphasizing that an acquisition of this system by France would be another milestone in Indo-French defence ties. In addition, President Macron welcomed the decision to include India as an observer to the Eurodrone MALE programme managed by OCCAR, which is another step forward in the growing strength of our partnership in defence equipment programmes.
Additionally, both nations acknowledged the importance of maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, committing to increased joint naval exercises and patrols. The visit of France’s Carrier Strike Group Charles de Gaulle to India in January 2025 and India’s participation in France’s La Pérouse naval exercise highlight the growing interoperability between the two navies.
Missile, Jet Engine, and Defense Production Partnerships
In a major step toward strengthening indigenous defense manufacturing, India and France are expanding cooperation in missile systems, helicopter engines, and jet engines. Talks are ongoing between Safran Group and Indian defense entities to co-develop critical aerospace technologies. Prime Minister Modi also invited France to evaluate India’s Pinaka Multiple Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) for possible procurement, underscoring India’s emergence as a key defense exporter.
France’s decision to include India as an observer in the Eurodrone MALE program marks another milestone in bilateral defense ties, opening new avenues for India’s participation in advanced drone technologies.
Defence Startups and Innovation
Recognizing the need for cutting-edge technological advancements in defense, both leaders welcomed the launch of FRIND-X (France-India Defence Startup Excellence) in Paris, bringing together startups, investors, and defense agencies to drive innovation. Furthermore, discussions between ONERA (France’s aerospace research agency) and DRDO aim to identify and develop new defense technologies.
In a move to involve young minds in defense R&D, both countries agreed to encourage Indian students to participate in joint defense tech challenges hosted by leading French institutions.
Strategic and Global Coordination
Beyond bilateral defense cooperation, India and France also engaged in regional security discussions, including developments in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) for strategic connectivity. France reaffirmed its support for India’s permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and agreed to coordinate on UNSC matters, including veto reform.
Both nations also expanded trilateral cooperation with partners like Australia and the UAE, with joint military exercises strengthening their strategic alignment. Their commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific was reaffirmed, with a focus on countering emerging threats in the region.
Counter-Terrorism and Cybersecurity Cooperation
India and France vowed to enhance counter-terrorism efforts, calling for crackdowns on terror financing networks and stronger anti-money laundering measures. Their intelligence-sharing partnership has deepened, with cooperation between India’s National Security Guard (NSG) and France’s GIGN (Gendarmerie Nationale’s elite unit) playing a crucial role in counter-terrorism operations.
Additionally, both countries committed to joint efforts in cybersecurity and AI governance, ensuring that future digital and AI-driven warfare capabilities are regulated and aligned with global security norms.
The agreements and announcements during PM Modi’s visit mark a new chapter in India-France defense relations, reinforcing their position as trusted partners in military, technology, and regional security. With a focus on joint production, innovation, and interoperability, both nations are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global defense collaboration.
