Rafale Engine Refurbishment and Scorpin Submarine Manufacturing Set for India: Agreement during Macron’s Visit

French President Emmanuel Macron visited India for a two-day official meeting on January 25-26. He was received directly at Jaipur Airport, where he was welcomed by Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. Macron also participated in a roadshow with PM Modi in Jaipur. Both leaders also held discussions on global and bilateral issues.

India-France Collaboration in Defense Sector

During this period, many agreements were reached between India and France. PM Modi and Macron agreed to enhance cooperation in defense industries in both countries. A roadmap was also prepared for this purpose. Both leaders also inaugurated agreements related to the production of Scorpion-class submarines and their components in India.

Progress in Projects

Macron also inspected the progress of these projects. Furthermore, a deal was struck with the Safran company for the establishment of facilities for the maintenance, repair, and operation of Rafale fighter jet engines in India. Besides, Safran will also collaborate with India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to manufacture engines for the IMRH helicopter.

Signing of MOUs for Defense Research Collaboration

For collaboration in defense research, MOUs will be signed with the Ministry of Defense (MoD) shortly. Subsequently, the production of these engines will also take place in India. Discussions are also ongoing between France’s Directorate General of Armament (DGA) and India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) on collaboration in defense research and development.

H125 Single Engine Helicopter to be Manufactured in Vadodara

A significant agreement was also reached between the Tata Group and the French aircraft manufacturer Airbus. Under this agreement, both companies will manufacture the H125 single-engine helicopters in India. These helicopters will be used for commercial purposes. Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) will manage the assembly line for these helicopters.

India-France Cooperation in Defense: Importance for Atmanirbhar Bharat Mission

The agreements between India and France in the defense sector are crucial for the Atmanirbhar Bharat Mission. It is also essential for India’s efforts to become self-reliant. Additionally, discussions were held on partnering in science, technology, and digital development for India’s development goals until 2047.

Scorpion Class Submarine Deal: What It Entails?

In the early years of Modi’s tenure, during a meeting with Macron, a deal was signed with Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL) to manufacture three or more Scorpion (Kalvari) class attack submarines. In 2005, India had signed a deal with the French naval group for approximately $3.75 billion, roughly around Rs. 28.6 thousand crores, to manufacture Scorpion-class submarines. These submarines are being manufactured in India through a collaboration between Mazagon Dockyards Limited and France.

Acknowledgment of PM Modi for Launching India-Middle East Corridor

Apart from this, both leaders discussed various issues of global importance. President Macron had sent a message of congratulations to PM Modi for launching the India-Middle East corridor during the G20 summit in Delhi in September 2023. PM Modi was welcomed by France for this project.

Modi-Macron Condemnation of Hamas Attacks on Israel

During the bilateral meeting, Modi and Macron also condemned Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7. Both leaders agreed that civilians living in Gaza are suffering due to the war. They emphasized the need to respect international humanitarian laws and provide assistance to the people of Gaza affected by the conflict.

Modi-Macron Agreement on Peace in the Mediterranean

In addition to the Israel-Hamas conflict, discussions were also held on the increasing tensions in the Mediterranean Sea. Both leaders agreed that it is crucial to work together for peace in this region. They also expressed concerns about the human casualties resulting from the ongoing war in Ukraine and emphasized the need to put pressure through UN charters and international laws for establishing peace in Ukraine.