NEW DELHI: Amidst the deepening ties between the two nations, India and France are embarking on a new chapter of collaboration in the defense sector. A noteworthy development is the establishment of a technical office of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at the Indian embassy in Paris, as outlined in the joint statement released on Friday.

India considers France, as a significant ally, in its pursuit of a self-sufficient defense industrial and technological foundation. The joint commitment of both countries lies in the co-development and co-production of cutting-edge defense technologies that will not only benefit themselves but also extend their support to other nations. In this endeavor, India and France are actively working towards adopting a roadmap on Defense Industrial Cooperation.

Highlighting the recent visit of Prime Minister Modi to France, where he graced the Bastille Day Parade as the Guest of Honor, the joint statement expresses contentment over the timely delivery of the 36 Rafale aircraft, a testament to the outstanding cooperation in military aviation shared by both nations over the past five decades.

Furthermore, India and France are poised to forge even stronger defense cooperation in advanced aeronautical technologies. Their joint focus will be on supporting the development of a combat aircraft engine, marking a groundbreaking milestone in their collaboration. A roadmap for this ambitious project will be prepared by Safran and DRDO before the year's end, solidifying their commitment.

A notable collaboration in this realm is the endorsement of Safran Helicopter Engine's industrial cooperation for the motorization of heavy-lift helicopters under the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) program. This endeavor is facilitated by a shareholders' agreement for engine development between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) of India and Safran Helicopter Engine of France. The agreement aims to propel the advancement of the IMRH program, emphasizing the unwavering support between the two nations.

This joint communique reflects the shared vision and determination of India and France to deepen their defense cooperation and jointly spearhead groundbreaking advancements in aeronautical technologies.

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