India, France Renew Defence Cooperation for 10 Years, Boost Military Partnership
India and France have renewed their defence cooperation agreement for another ten years, marking a significant step in strengthening their bilateral strategic ties. This decision was announced during the 6th India-France Annual Defence Dialogue held in Bengaluru on February 17, 2026.
The dialogue was co-chaired by India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and France’s Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, Catherine Vautrin. The ministers reviewed ongoing security cooperation and explored new areas for co-development and co-production of advanced defence technologies.
A major focus of the discussion was on enhancing indigenous defence manufacturing in India. India expressed its desire for increased local content in the Rafale fighter aircraft programme, as well as an expansion of maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities within the country. Both sides emphasized the need for closer collaboration between industries, particularly in niche and emerging technologies.
As part of the agreement, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Bharat Electronics Limited and Safran Electronics & Defence to establish a joint venture for manufacturing Hammer missiles in India. This move aligns with India’s push for defence self-reliance and aims to deepen technological cooperation with international partners.
The two countries also announced the reciprocal deployment of officers at Indian Army and French Land Forces establishments to strengthen military-to-military engagement and knowledge sharing. The decision to convert Exercise Shakti into an annual event was welcomed as a step towards greater operational cooperation.
During the dialogue, both ministers highlighted the strategic importance of Indo-French relations in maintaining regional and global stability. India reiterated its role as a ‘First Responder’ and ‘Net Security Provider’ in the Indian Ocean Region, committing to assist partner nations in defence and maritime security.
The discussions also addressed broader geopolitical concerns, including terrorism and regional security challenges. Both nations expressed their commitment to reinforcing long-term strategic alignment through practical cooperation and joint capabilities.
The India-France Annual Defence Dialogue continues to be a crucial ministerial platform guiding defence collaboration between the two countries. This renewed agreement signals ongoing confidence in their partnership as both nations aim to address evolving global security dynamics together.
