India-France Relations: Not just fighter jets, know what else India and France order from each other?

India-France Relations: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to France, where he received a grand welcome from French President Emmanuel Macron. During this visit, PM Modi will co-chair the AI Summit, followed by bilateral talks between the two nations. These discussions are expected to result in several crucial defense agreements.

India-France Defense Cooperation

India has already imported Rafale fighter jets from France, and now, there is a possibility of acquiring Rafale M for the Indian Navy. Defense ties between India and France have strengthened significantly since 1998. After India's Pokhran nuclear tests, when many Western countries imposed sanctions, France stood by India and assisted in lifting these restrictions.

Kargil War and the Role of Mirage 2000

The Mirage 2000 fighter jets purchased from France played a decisive role in the Kargil War, causing heavy losses to Pakistan. This aircraft is also capable of carrying nuclear weapons. France provided India with the Inertial Navigation System, enhancing the accuracy of the Prithvi missile. Now, both countries are moving forward in co-developing fighter jets.

India-France Trade Relations

Trade between India and France has been growing rapidly. India imports the following from France:

• Fighter planes and aircraft equipment
• Helicopters and LNG
• Turbojets and turbines
• Navigation equipment

On the other hand, France imports these products from India:

• ATF (Aviation Turbine Fuel) and diesel
• Clothing, footwear, and smartphones
• Gold jewelry and airplane parts
• Pharmaceuticals and chemicals

French Companies Operating in India

Several French companies have a strong presence in India, including:

• Engie Solar: The largest foreign investor in India's solar energy sector.
• PSA Group: Established a powertrain manufacturing unit in Tamil Nadu.
• Renault: Has a production unit in Chennai and a design studio in Mumbai.
• Schneider Electric: Operates 28 factories in India.
• Safran: Collaborating with HAL to manufacture aircraft engines.

Indian Companies in France

Several Indian companies are also operating in France, such as:

• Tech Mahindra: Opened a development center in Toulouse for the aerospace sector.
• Tata Group: Companies like Tata Communications, Tata Elxsi, TCS, and Tata Steel are active in France.
• Motherson Sumi: Manufacturing automobile components.
• NTPC and EDF: Jointly developing power projects in Europe, Central Asia, and Africa.

Potential New Agreements

During this visit, India is expected to finalize a multi-billion-dollar deal with France for Rafale M fighter jets for its Navy. These jets will be deployed on INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. They will be equipped with advanced Meteor air-to-air missiles and anti-ship weapons, significantly boosting India’s maritime capabilities.

India is also considering procuring additional Scorpene submarines from France to strengthen its naval power.

Growing Demand for Pinaka Rocket System

France has shown a strong interest in India's Pinaka Rocket System, developed by DRDO. This system can launch 12 rockets in just 44 seconds, with a strike range of 7 to 90 km. Three variants (MK-1, MK-2, and MK-3) are being developed, with MK-3 expected to have an extended range.

Conclusion

India and France are continuously deepening their strategic, defense, and trade relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit is expected to elevate economic and security cooperation between the two nations to new heights.