New Delhi: India and France have made significant strides in defense collaboration. A statement released on Wednesday announced plans to manufacture three additional Scorpene-class submarines in Mumbai. These submarines are designed for stealthy operations and are often referred to as ‘hunter-killer’ subs.
Currently, India operates six Scorpene submarines, with the latest addition, INS Vagsheer, commissioned last month by Prime Minister Modi. The agreement to build more submarines reflects the discussions that took place between Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron in Marseille.
During their talks, both leaders praised the ongoing military cooperation, which aligns with the ambitious Defence Industrial Roadmap established last year. This partnership has already yielded successful construction outcomes for Scorpene submarines in India.
One key point of success is the integration of India’s Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system into the Scorpene program. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), AIP technology allows these submarines to operate underwater for longer durations. This capability minimizes their chances of being detected during missions, enhancing their effectiveness.
Additionally, Modi and Macron discussed the potential integration of the Integrated Combat System (ICS) into future submarine projects, signaling ongoing innovation and improvements in naval capabilities.
The discussions also touched on collaboration regarding missiles and advanced helicopter and jet engines. Modi expressed interest in France exploring India’s Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher, viewing it as a milestone for the defense relationship between the two nations.
India recently completed a successful flight test of the Pinaka system, demonstrating its range and accuracy when targeting multiple threats.
Prime Minister Modi’s trip to France, followed by a meeting in the United States with President Trump, marks a pivotal moment for strengthening Indo-French ties in various sectors, including defense, space, and healthcare. This collaborative spirit is paving the way for a stronger partnership between the two countries.
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