India and France seal historic Rafale jet deal amid deepening defence ties
India and France have strengthened their defence and strategic ties during high-level talks this week. The discussions covered security, technology, space, and civil nuclear energy—alongside plans for a major fighter jet deal. A key meeting took place between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Emmanuel Bonne, diplomatic advisor to French President Emmanuel Macron.
Emmanuel Bonne met with Prime Minister Modi to review bilateral relations and address regional security concerns. Their talks included cooperation on defence, innovation, and global challenges.
India is moving forward with a massive Rs 3.25 lakh crore deal to buy 114 Rafale fighter jets from France. Around 12-18 of these aircraft will arrive in fly-away condition, while the rest will be manufactured in India. The jets will feature roughly 30 percent indigenous components, aligning with India’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat policies. During the strategic dialogue, both nations agreed to deepen collaboration in joint development and technology transfers. India has also requested France to integrate Indian-made weapons and systems into the Rafale jets as part of the government-to-government agreement. No French officials are confirmed to attend a defence ministers' meeting in India between January 14-17, 2026. Recent reports instead highlight German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit earlier this month, where trade and submarine deals were discussed.
The latest talks reinforce India’s push for self-reliance in defence while expanding its partnership with France. The Rafale deal, once finalised, will mark a significant step in military modernisation and industrial cooperation. Both countries have committed to further joint projects in technology and security.
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