Why China And Pakistan Will Watch These 5 Defence Deals Signed By Modi And Macron

1. Rafale-M fighter aircraft: India's defence partnership with France has deepened across air, sea and manufacturing sectors, with a series of major projects aimed at strengthening operational capability and boosting indigenous production. The agreements, spanning fighter jets, submarines, missile systems, engines and helicopters, reflect a growing strategic alignment between the two countries. The deal for 26 Rafale-M fighter jets, the naval variant of the Rafale, is being seen as a key step in enhancing the Indian Navy's strength. Signed in April 2025 as an inter-governmental agreement, the acquisition is aimed at equipping aircraft carriers such as INS Vikrant with modern strike capabilities. These jets can deploy both air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, and the agreement includes provisions for technology transfer that will allow engineers to undertake maintenance. Indigenous missile systems are also expected to be integrated, giving the Navy a strategic edge, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region amid rising competition with China. (News18 Hindi)

2. Scorpene Submarine (Project P-75): At sea, India and France have already completed the joint construction of six Scorpene-class submarines under Project-75. In January 2025, the sixth submarine, INS Vagsheer, was commissioned into the Indian Navy. Built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, the submarines are known for their advanced stealth features that help them evade enemy radar, and are equipped with torpedoes and anti-ship missiles. Both countries are now in discussions to build three additional Scorpene submarines, expected to be fitted with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems that will allow them to remain underwater for longer durations. (News18 Hindi)

3. HAMMER Missile (HAMMER Weapon System): In the aerospace weapons segment, the French precision-guided HAMMER missile system is set to be manufactured in India under a new agreement between Safran and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range weapon enhances the strike capability of aircraft such as the Rafale and Tejas by enabling them to hit bunkers and enemy positions from long distances in all weather conditions. Domestic production is expected to reduce costs and ensure a steady supply for the Indian Air Force (IAF), while strengthening the country's ability to carry out precision operations in mountainous and difficult terrain. (News18 Hindi)

4. M88 and LEAP engines (Safran MRO & Jet Engines): Another significant development is the establishment of India's first deep-level engine maintenance, repair and overhaul facility by French company Safran in Hyderabad. The centre, which became operational in November 2025, is designed to service up to 300 LEAP engines annually. Maintenance of Rafale's M88 engines will also be carried out in India. In addition, discussions are underway to co-develop a new fighter jet engine with 110kN thrust, with France reportedly willing to share critical technology. The project is expected to support India’s plans to build indigenous engines for future platforms such as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), marking a major step towards defence self-reliance. (News18 Hindi)

5. Tata-Airbus H125 Helicopter: In the rotorcraft sector, India and France have launched a joint assembly line for H125 helicopters through a partnership between Tata and Airbus. As per a 2026 agreement, the helicopters will be produced at a facility in Karnataka, making it India's first private-sector helicopter manufacturing unit. The helicopters are suited for both civilian and military roles, including supply missions, surveillance and disaster management in high-altitude areas. The project is also aimed at positioning India as a global manufacturing hub and opening new opportunities for defence exports. (News18 Hindi)

Speaking on the occasion, PM Narendra Modi said that the growing cooperation, built on mutual trust and shared vision, was elevating the relationship into a special global strategic partnership. He added that India and France would jointly manufacture in India what he described as the world's only helicopter capable of flying to the heights of Mount Everest, with plans to export it worldwide. (News18 Hindi)