Feb 18 • 10:29 UTC 🇬🇷 Greece To Vima

Rafale, strategic autonomy, and AI: India and France seal a new 'special' relationship

France and India are advancing their ties through a monumental defense deal involving the procurement of 114 Rafale fighter jets during the AI Impact Summit.

During the AI Impact Summit in India, numerous foreign leaders are using the event as a backdrop to forge significant commercial and political agreements. Among those present is Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, but the spotlight is on the French delegation led by President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Their discussions could yield noteworthy partnerships not just in technology, but more critically in defense, illustrating the strategic importance of the event to both nations.

Central to the talks between Macron and Modi is a massive deal concerning 114 Rafale fighter jets, valued at nearly 30 billion euros. If finalized, this agreement would stand as one of the largest defense contracts in Indian history, marking a transformative moment for India's defense capabilities. This deal also has profound implications for the French defense industry, which could benefit significantly from this influx of orders.

The strengthening of defense ties between France and India parallels ongoing global shifts in geopolitical alliances. As India seeks to enhance its military capabilities and strategic autonomy, partnerships like this one with France serve to bolster its defense industry and operational readiness. The implications of this deal extend beyond immediate military needs, potentially reshaping power dynamics in the region and asserting India's role on the global stage.

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