French defence major Safran Group is set to launch its first Defence Electronics unit outside France, choosing India as the strategic location. This announcement emerged from a two-day strategic dialogue held between India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and high-ranking French officials, including Emmanuel Bonne, diplomatic advisor to President Emmanuel Macron, and Fabien Mandon, Macron’s chief military advisor. The dialogue, which took place on September 30 and October 1, further strengthens the defence cooperation between India and France.

Collaboration on Advanced Materials and Metallurgy
Sources indicate that France has also agreed to collaborate with India on advanced materials and metallurgy, essential for manufacturing key components in both military and civilian engines. Indian industry aims to develop expertise in advanced metallurgy, particularly in forging and casting vital aircraft engine parts. This collaboration is seen as crucial for enhancing India's domestic manufacturing capabilities in defence and aerospace.

Safran’s Plans for Defence Electronics Manufacturing
During the discussions, Safran announced its intention to establish a Defence Electronics manufacturing facility in India. This unit will focus on producing sensors and critical electronic components necessary for various military platforms. Although the specific location for this facility has not yet been determined, Safran’s commitment reflects the growing partnership in the defence sector between the two nations.

This marks another chapter in Safran's history of collaboration with India, as the group has long been involved in several aerospace projects, including engine production for the Rafale fighter jets recently acquired by India’s Air Force.

Dassault Aviation’s Expansion in India
In addition to Safran, French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation SA is also expanding its presence in India. The company has acquired land in Jevar, Uttar Pradesh, to set up a comprehensive maintenance, overhaul, and repair (MRO) facility. This new hub will service Rafale fighters and civilian aircraft, reinforcing the long-term partnership between India and France in defence and aerospace.

Joint Development of Unmanned Systems
The strategic dialogue also addressed collaborative efforts to develop unmanned systems, including underwater drones for submarines. France has pledged to assist India in advancing these technologies, which encompass counter-swarm drone technology and armed drone systems. This initiative aims to bolster India's capabilities in unmanned and autonomous military platforms.

Cooperation on Military Satellites and Stand-off Weapons
Further discussions included the potential for joint launches of military satellites and co-development of stand-off weapons like the Hammer missile, already deployed by the Indian Air Force. The talks highlighted broader military applications in space and cybersecurity, showcasing the multifaceted nature of Indo-French strategic ties.

Doval-Macron Meeting: Focus on Ukraine and Israel-Lebanon Conflicts
A significant aspect of Doval’s visit to France was his hour-long meeting with President Emmanuel Macron. The leaders discussed pressing global security issues, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the situation between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Officials noted that NSA Doval provided his insights on the Ukraine war, while French Foreign Minister Jean Noel Barrot updated the Indian delegation on developments in West Asia, especially Lebanon, after his recent trip to Beirut.

Both nations concurred that Israel will likely continue its operations against Hezbollah, aiming to weaken the militant group. They underscored the importance of supporting a moderate government in Lebanon amid the crisis.

Global Security and Indo-Pacific Tensions
The dialogue also covered broader global security concerns, including China's increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. Both sides exchanged views on navigating the changing geopolitical landscape, particularly regarding China’s military and diplomatic actions. The Indo-Pacific region has become a focal point of India’s foreign policy, with France consistently backing India’s commitment to freedom of navigation and regional stability.

The strategic dialogue between India and France, underscored by Safran’s decision to establish a Defence Electronics unit in India, highlights the strengthening defence and security ties between the two nations. As both countries align on critical global issues, particularly in the defence sector, this partnership is poised to significantly influence the future of Indo-French relations.

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