French President Emmanuel Macron announced on February 19, 2026, that France and India are entering a “new era” of defence cooperation, highlighted by plans to jointly produce Rafale fighter jets in India. Speaking at the end of a three-day visit to New Delhi, Macron emphasized expanding the Rafale program through co-production under India’s “Make in India” initiative.
This follows India’s Defence Acquisition Council granting initial clearance last week for procuring 114 additional Rafale jets for the air force. Macron described the move as a “new step forward” in bilateral ties.
Co-Production and Indigenous Focus
Macron stated that India had confirmed its intent to order 114 Rafales and co-produce them domestically. He committed to maximizing Indian components and critical manufacturing in India, aligning with demands for higher indigenous content—potentially up to 50% in phases.
Details of the deal, including the joint venture partner and exact co-production terms, await technical and commercial negotiations. Reports estimate the package at around 3.25 trillion rupees ($35-40 billion), with most jets to be built locally.
Macron defended the Rafale against critics, asserting it strengthens India’s military and creates jobs, dismissing questions about its performance in recent conflicts.
Broader Defence and Strategic Ties
Beyond Rafales, Macron expressed hope for similar cooperation on submarines, noting France’s offer of additional capacities. India already operates six French Scorpene-class submarines, with potential for more orders.
The visit also saw announcements on helicopter assembly: a joint venture between Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems for H125 helicopters, plus co-production of HAMMER missiles by Safran and Bharat Electronics.
Macron highlighted the “unique” global strategic partnership between France and India, extending to future needs in combat aviation through 2040-2050, AI, and emerging technologies. The developments underscore deepening Indo-French defence-industrial collaboration amid regional security dynamics.