India France Deals: India and France have taken their partnership to a new level. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron signed around 20 major agreements in Mumbai. Both leaders called it a “Special Global Strategic Partnership.” The focus is clear: co-produce in India, not just import.
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India France Deals Big Push in Defence Manufacturing
India France Deals: Defence stood at the center of the talks. India plans to manufacture 114 Dassault Rafale fighter jets, with 96 to be built in India and 60% local content. This move strengthens domestic production and creates skilled jobs.
India will also produce HAMMER missiles through a BEL-Safran joint venture. In addition, an Airbus-Tata facility will assemble H125 helicopters in Karnataka. These projects show a shift from buyer-seller ties to long-term industrial collaboration.
Technology, AI and Innovation Year 2026
Both countries announced the India-France Year of Innovation 2026. The plan covers artificial intelligence, quantum research, semiconductors, and clean energy. New institutes will focus on AI in healthcare and aeronautics training.
The goal is simple. Share knowledge. Build technology together. Reduce dependency on other global powers.
Nuclear Energy and Cultural Ties
The two sides also advanced the long-pending Jaitapur nuclear energy project. They amended the double tax avoidance agreement to boost trade and investment.
Cultural diplomacy also featured in the visit. France will host a Swami Vivekananda cultural centre, while India will promote maritime heritage initiatives.
Should the United States Be Worried?
The short answer is no. India continues strong ties with the US through platforms like the QUAD and iCET. France remains a NATO member. These deals do not target Washington.
Instead, they support a multipolar world where India diversifies partnerships. For the US, this can mean a stronger India that shares the burden in maintaining Indo-Pacific stability.
The Mumbai agreements reflect balance, not rivalry. India is expanding options, not replacing allies.
