New Delhi: India has asked France to increase the “Make in India” component in its deal for 114 Rafale fighter jets and to include domestic production of key missiles—Meteor, SCALP, and MICA—within the weapons package. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized this demand during discussions with his French counterpart.
Expanding Indigenous Weapons Manufacturing
India has already approved an additional deal worth ₹3,200 crore for SCALP air-to-ground missiles, which were previously used in Operation Sindhur. Sources say that considering the missile requirements for the next three decades, India wants production of these missiles to take place within the country.
The Rafale aircraft manufactured in India will be capable of integrating indigenous weapons, though a significant number of French-made missiles will continue to be imported initially. India aims to develop advanced weapons locally, enhancing self-reliance in defence technology.
HAMMER Missile Joint Production
Earlier this month, a joint agreement was finalized between Safran and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to manufacture the HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) smart precision-guided air-to-ground weapon in India.
Benefits for Indian Defence Industry
Other missiles and weapons integrated into the Indian Air Force and Navy’s Rafale fleet will follow a similar production model. This initiative will provide Indian companies access to advanced manufacturing techniques, which are currently dominated by DRDO-developed ordnance and missiles.
The India-France collaboration is expected to integrate Indian firms into global supply chains for complex weapons, tapping into the growing worldwide demand for long-range missiles and advanced armaments. By positioning itself as a reliable partner in Europe, India aims to strengthen its defence industrial base and diversify supply chains while leveraging European expertise in research and development.
Discover more from SD NEWS agency
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.