The Chief of Staff of the French Army, General Pierre Schill, has expressed significant interest in acquiring Indian-developed long-range rocket systems, loitering munitions, and anti-drone technology.
This announcement follows the reported success of these indigenous systems during a recent military engagement with Pakistan, highlighting a major validation for India's growing defence manufacturing capabilities.
The high-level discussions, held in New Delhi, signal a potential new chapter in the strategic partnership between India and France. As European nations reassess their military needs, the search for effective and affordable combat-proven equipment has intensified.
France's interest could open substantial export opportunities for India's defence industry, providing a major boost to the nation's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative in the defence sector.
Operation Sindoor: A Showcase of Indigenous Firepower
The French interest was reportedly sparked by the performance of Indian systems in "Operation Sindoor," a counter-terrorism strike conducted in May 2025. The operation was launched in response to terrorist activities and involved precision strikes on multiple targets across the Line of Control (LoC).Lasting 88 hours, the operation was noted for its surgical precision and reliance on domestically produced technology, which allowed Indian forces to neutralize hostile camps with minimal collateral damage.
According to analysis from think tanks like the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), the operation demonstrated a "calibrated force" that combined lethal effect with strategic restraint, preventing a wider escalation of conflict.
French military observers, present in the region through joint exercises, were reportedly impressed by the integration and performance of India's homegrown military hardware.
Technologies in Focus
General Schill’s attention is concentrated on three specific categories of weapon systems that were validated during the operation:- Long-Range Rockets: The extended-range variant of the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) was a key asset. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Pinaka system is capable of firing a salvo of rockets to strike targets up to 90 kilometres away. The guided versions of the Pinaka rockets, which use integrated navigation systems, offer high accuracy, making them a potent tool for modern artillery warfare.
- Loitering Munitions: Often called "kamikaze drones," these platforms were used for surveillance and precision strikes. Indian systems like the Nagastra-1, developed by Solar Industries, and the Switch UAV from ideaForge, demonstrated their ability to loiter over a target area for extended periods before attacking. These portable and cost-effective drones proved resilient against electronic jamming and are seen as a powerful asset in asymmetric conflicts.
- Counter-Drone Systems: To protect its forces from enemy surveillance and attack drones, India deployed a layered network of counter-UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) technology. Systems such as the Indigenous Anti-Drone System (IADS) and Akashteer, developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), successfully neutralized dozens of hostile drones. These systems use a combination of radar, jammers, and laser-based weapons to defend a radius of 5 to 10 kilometres, a capability increasingly vital for modern armies.
Deepening Strategic Alliance
France's potential procurement of these systems aligns with its ongoing military modernization effort, known as the Scorpion program, which aims to create a more networked and lethal fighting force.This move would represent a significant evolution in the Franco-Indian defence relationship, which has traditionally seen India as a buyer of French equipment.
This partnership is already robust, built on foundational deals for 36 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force, 26 marine Rafales for the Navy, and the construction of Scorpène-class submarines in India.
The current discussions could lead to joint ventures and technology transfers, as envisioned in the comprehensive India-France Defence Roadmap established in 2024.
This development not only reinforces diplomatic ties but also positions India as a credible provider of advanced and battle-tested defence solutions on the global stage.
