India-France Defense Cooperation Strengthens: 114 Rafales to Feature 50% Indian Components, Indigenous Fighter Jet Engines and Hammer Missile Deal Finalized

New Delhi / Mumbai / Bengaluru: India and France have taken a significant leap in defense cooperation, formalizing plans for indigenous production of key defense systems, including the Rafale fighter jets, fifth-generation jet engines, and Hammer missiles.

Rafale Jets with 50% Indian Components

During the 6th India-France Annual Defense Dialogue in Bengaluru, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh discussed with his French counterpart Catherine Vautrin that of the 114 Rafale jets being procured from France, the component share manufactured in India will be increased to 50%, strengthening the Make in India initiative.

“Efforts should be made to ensure that fighter jet engines are built and overhauled in India,” Singh emphasized, highlighting the strategic importance of domestic defense manufacturing.

Fifth-Generation Jet Engines and Helicopter Assembly

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in Mumbai, hosted French President Emmanuel Macron, where both leaders highlighted joint production initiatives, including helicopter assembly lines and fifth-generation fighter jet engines. Macron stated, “From Rafale jets to submarines, we are deepening defense cooperation. India and France are working together to build critical aerospace and defense capabilities on Indian soil.”

Hammer Missile Production in India

The two ministers also signed an MoU for indigenous production of Hammer missiles, to be manufactured by a joint venture between India’s public-sector defense company Bharat Electronics Limited and French aerospace firm Safran. This initiative marks a significant step in bilateral co-development and co-production of advanced weapon systems.

Next Steps for the Rafale Deal

The Defense Acquisition Council, led by Rajnath Singh, recently cleared the purchase of 114 multi-role Rafale jets from France. Following discussions on pricing during the Modi-Macron bilateral meeting, the deal will move to cabinet approval, after which official contracts are expected to be signed.

This strengthened partnership not only enhances India’s defense capabilities but also promotes domestic production, technological transfer, and long-term strategic collaboration between the two nations.