India-France defence ties move beyond fighter jets

French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a meeting in New Delhi. (Courtesy: PTI photo)

India’s defence partnership with France has broadened significantly over the past decade, moving beyond aircraft purchases to include naval platforms, missiles and advanced defence systems, according to a Moneycontrol analysis of SIPRI data.

While aircraft have dominated the relationship, recent years have seen a pronounced shift towards maritime defence cooperation. France accounted for nearly 80 percent of India’s ship imports during 2019-2024, marking a sharp increase from around 16 percent in 2013-2018 and negligible levels prior to that.

France and India are entering a new era of defence cooperation, French President Emmanuel Macron said on February 19, announcing plans for joint development of Rafale aircraft and helicopters.

India has placed an order for 114 fighters, far exceeding its current capacity of 62, of which 26 are marine versions for the Navy.

The French President was also hopeful that the successful partnership would extend to submarines as well.

Aircraft imports remain a central pillar of the partnership. India’s aircraft purchases surged sevenfold on account of Rafale orders. This translated into France accounting for roughly 43 percent of India’s aircraft imports in the latest period.

Missile systems have emerged as another area of steady engagement. India’s missile imports have risen 11-fold since 2007-12.

France’s share in India’s missile imports climbed to about 15 percent in the latest period, reflecting diversification of defence ties beyond traditional platforms.

France’s share of India’s total defence imports increased from less than 1 percent to nearly 31 percent, highlighting the deepening strategic alignment between the two countries.

Despite this expansion, some segments have seen moderation. Imports of sensors and engines from France have declined in recent years, as domestic capabilities have increased.