India to co-produce Rafale jets with France in boost to defence ties

NEW DELHI: India and France are set to strengthen defence cooperation with plans to jointly produce Rafale fighter jets and helicopters, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday. France also hopes to sell additional submarines to India as part of the expanded defence partnership.

Macron described India’s expected order for 114 more Rafales as a “new step forward” in defence ties between the two countries.

Speaking to reporters at the end of his three-day visit to India, he said: “India confirmed a few days ago its willingness to command a new batch of Rafales… 114… and to co-produce in India.”

The Defence Acquisition Council of India gave initial clearance last week for the acquisition of 114 Rafales for the Indian Air Force, in addition to other aircraft and missiles, months after the worst fighting in decades with Pakistan. So far, India has purchased 36 Rafales for the Air Force and 26 marine versions for the Navy.

While the details of the co-production plan are still under technical and commercial negotiation, Indian media report that up to 90 jets could be produced in India with a joint venture partner yet to be named. The total cost of the 114 jets is expected to be around 3.25 trillion rupees ($35.65 billion).

Macron also highlighted India’s submarine programme, saying: “Rafale is absolutely key. I hope we will do it on submarines. We offered additional capacities.” Currently, the Indian Navy operates six French Scorpene submarines, with plans reportedly under consideration for additional orders.

During the visit, Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first H125 helicopter assembly line in India, produced through a joint venture between Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems. They also announced plans to jointly produce HAMMER missiles in India, in a partnership between Safran and state-owned Bharat Electronics.

The agreements mark a significant deepening of India-France defence ties, reflecting growing strategic cooperation in the region.