France interested in India's long-range rockets, loitering munitions, says Gen Schill

French Army chief General Pierre Schill has expressed keen interest in Indian long-range weapon systems, citing their performance during Operation Sindoor, The Economic Times reported. He highlighted that France is exploring long-range rockets, loitering munitions, and counter-drone systems as part of its plans to upgrade its own artillery capabilities.

Speaking during his visit to New Delhi for the UN Troop Contributing Countries Chiefs conference, Gen Schill noted that India and France could explore co-development opportunities for emerging battlefield technologies, including artificial intelligence and electronic warfare, The Economic Times added.

"I'm interested in understanding the systems used by the Indian Army, particularly as we are in the process of renewing our long-range artillery systems," the general said, referring to the possibility of French forces acquiring the long-range Pinaka rocket systems. The Economic Times highlighted that France has shown interest in a longer-range version of the indigenous Pinaka rockets, which have demonstrated both accuracy and cost-effectiveness, with prior demonstrations already conducted for French officials.

Gen Schill emphasised that while cooperation between the two nations could span all new domains of warfare, long-range systems and loitering munitions remain a primary focus. "The Indian Army is using these systems very effectively because of your industry and the operational adaptability of your forces. The performance during Operation Sindoor is particularly noteworthy," he said, The Economic Times reported.

The French general, who met Indian Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Monday, also identified counter-drone capabilities as a key area for collaboration. He added, "Electronic warfare and artificial intelligence are domains where cooperation could be highly efficient given the strengths of our two armies," according to The Economic Times.

Gen Schill further shared that India and France are considering institutionalising annual army training exercises, building on the Shakti series. Both sides are looking to not only increase the frequency of joint exercises but also enhance their complexity to include UAV training, counter-drone operations, and electronic warfare, The Economic Times reported.