India and France have inked an ambitious Defense Space Agreement, marking an unprecedented move that could involve the joint launch of military satellites equipped with both offensive and defensive capabilities, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The discreetly signed agreement, not publicized or discussed, took place on January 26, as French Defence Minister Sebastien Locornu and India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval formalized the deal. This occurred while French President Emmanuel Macron was present at the Republic Day reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan, alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
France has expressed willingness to assist India in developing advanced defense platforms, including locally produced fighter aircraft engines, nuclear attack submarines, and underwater drones. The defense industrial roadmap outlined by the leaders aims not only to make India self-reliant in the long term but also to establish a robust industrial base, creating jobs and reducing dependency on foreign imports. Additionally, the agreement includes plans to manufacture in India and export to third countries, enhancing collaboration between the two nations.
