French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a significant shift in bilateral defense ties, stating that Rafale fighter jets will now be manufactured in India under the 'Make in India' initiative. Speaking to the media during the India AI Summit, President Macron emphasized the need to deepen defense cooperation between the two nations. He stated that both countries intend to advance the Rafale jet program through joint production, which will serve as the foundation for future orders. According to Macron, this move signifies a 'special global strategic partnership' that extends far beyond conventional defense relations, focusing on long-term industrial synergy.
Roadmap for 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft
President Macron confirmed that India has expressed interest in a new batch of 114 Rafale aircraft. He highlighted that industrial cooperation would be the cornerstone of this potential new order. Unlike previous direct purchases, the proposed framework focuses on co-production on Indian soil. According to officials, this initiative is designed to align with India's requirements for the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program. Macron described this as a major step forward that would strengthen existing cooperation and create a strong industrial base for advanced aviation technology within India.
Diversification into Submarines and Aerospace Technology
The French President also indicated that the collaborative model established for the Rafale jets could be extended to other critical defense sectors. He specifically mentioned submarines and the broader aerospace industry as areas for potential growth. Macron noted that France is committed to a new era of strategic and industrial partnership, which includes the transfer of high-end technology and joint development projects, while this expansion aims to address India's naval and space requirements through localized manufacturing, ensuring that the partnership covers land, air, and sea domains effectively.
Commitment to Local Content and Indigenization
A key highlight of Macron's statement was the emphasis on increasing local content in defense production. He stated that France is fully committed to promoting the use of Indian components and ensuring that critical devices are manufactured locally. According to the President, the goal is to integrate Indian suppliers into the global supply chain of the Rafale program. This approach is expected to enhance India's domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on imported subsystems. Macron assured that India can rely on France's commitment to achieving high levels of indigenization in all joint ventures.
Strengthening the Global Strategic Partnership
President Macron reiterated that the relationship between India and France is built on mutual trust and shared strategic interests. He noted that the cooperation in the defense sector is a reflection of a deeper bond that aims to maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The partnership involves not just the sale of equipment but also joint research and development (R&D) and the sharing of sensitive technology. By moving towards co-production of sophisticated platforms like the Rafale, both nations are looking to secure their strategic autonomy while fostering a resilient industrial partnership that serves as a model for international defense cooperation.