The defence partnership between India and France is rapidly evolving, driven by significant agreements and high-level exchanges. Two key documents, Horizon 2047 and the defence industrial roadmap, have become central to this deepening alliance. Signed during high-profile visits between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron, these documents underscore a commitment to long-term cooperation in defence and technology.
► Key Developments in the India-France Defence Partnership
1. Horizon 2047 : This strategic roadmap, signed during Modi's visit to France in July 2023, outlines the framework for collaboration up to the year 2047, which will mark the centenary of India's independence and the golden jubilee of India-France ties. It focuses on enhancing India's defence, industrial, and technological capabilities with French support, strengthening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, and advancing collaborative efforts in the space sector.
2. Defence Industrial Roadmap : Signed during Macron’s visit to India in January 2024, this roadmap details the ambitions for co-designing, co-development, and co-production of defence equipment not only for domestic use but also for export to other countries. This approach aligns with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative and covers areas including air and space technologies, and maritime technology.
► Strategic Exchanges and Visits
Recent visits by defence officials from both countries, including the Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan’s trip to France and the visit of the Chief of the French Army Staff Pierre Schill to India, highlight the dynamic and ongoing nature of this partnership. These exchanges focus on exploring futuristic capabilities and enhancing cooperation between the defence industries of the two nations.
► Defence Exports and Technological Transfers
France has emerged as a major defence partner for India, becoming the second-largest defence exporter to the country. The transfer of technology agreements, such as the commitment by Safran to fully transfer technology for the Shakti jet engine deal, illustrates the depth of this partnership. These agreements are crucial for developing India's domestic defence capabilities and ensuring the nation's strategic autonomy.
► Co-production and Export Initiatives
The roadmap also envisions joint production and export initiatives, potentially targeting regions like the Caucasus. This aspect of the partnership not only enhances the bilateral relationship but also positions both nations as pivotal players in international defence markets.
► Conclusion
The India-France defence partnership is set to expand significantly in the coming years, with the agreements reached and the mutual visits underscoring a robust strategic alignment. This collaboration is expected to yield substantial advancements in defence technology and capabilities, benefiting both nations and contributing to regional and global security.
SRIRAM’s
