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Safran Group to Establish First Overseas Defence Electronics Unit in India
In a significant move reflecting the deepening strategic relationship between India and France, French defence giant Safran Group has indicated its intent to establish its first Defence Electronics unit outside France in India. This development was discussed during a two-day strategic dialogue between India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and top French officials, including President Emmanuel Macron’s diplomatic advisor Emmanuel Bonne and his chief military advisor, Fabien Mandon.
India and France to Collaborate on Advanced Materials and Metallurgy
The discussions, which took place on September 30 and October 1, centered on bolstering cooperation in defence technologies, including advanced materials and metallurgy. France has agreed to assist India in acquiring crucial knowledge on advanced metallurgy, a key component in manufacturing critical parts of military and civilian engines. The initiative aims to enable the Indian industry to absorb high-end technology, particularly in the forging and casting of essential aircraft engine components.
Safran to Boost Defence Electronics Manufacturing in India
During the dialogue, Safran Group revealed its plans to set up a defence electronics facility in India. The new unit will focus on manufacturing sensors and other critical electronic components that are essential for supporting various military platforms. This move is expected to significantly enhance India’s capabilities in defence electronics and is seen as a testament to the growing India-France defence partnership.
Dassault Aviation’s Expansion Plans in India
Additionally, French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation SA has already taken a proactive step by acquiring land in Jevar, Uttar Pradesh. The land will be used to build a full-fledged maintenance, overhaul, and repair (MRO) facility, which will cater to Rafale fighters and civilian aircraft, marking another boost to India’s defence infrastructure.
Joint Development of Unmanned Systems and Drone Technology
France has also committed to jointly developing unmanned sub-surface, surface, and aerial systems, including underwater drones for submarines, alongside India. The two countries will collaborate on counter-swarm drone technology and armed drone systems, enhancing India’s defence capabilities in these critical areas.
NSA Doval’s Strategic Dialogue with President Macron
The highlight of NSA Doval’s visit to France was his hour-long meeting with President Emmanuel Macron, where the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel’s war with Hezbollah in Lebanon were discussed in detail. While NSA Doval shared his assessment on the Ukraine war, French Foreign Minister Jean Noel Barrot provided insights on the West Asia situation following his return from Beirut. Both sides concurred that Israel is likely to continue its land operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon to militarily weaken the Shia militant group while supporting efforts to stabilize the region.
This growing defence collaboration underscores the strengthening strategic partnership between India and France, with significant implications for India’s defence manufacturing capabilities and its broader geopolitical standing.
