SOURCE: AFI
A parliamentary delegation from France, led by Senator Catherine Dumas, Chair of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Armed Forces, visited India from May 18 to 23, 2025, to advance bilateral defence ties. The delegation met with India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to discuss joint development and technological cooperation, aligning with the India-France Defence Industrial Roadmap, as announced by the French Embassy.
Sources informed idrw.org that French aerospace giant Safran has engaged in productive discussions with DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE). The talks have culminated in a mutually agreed set of specifications tailored to India’s future fighter jet programs, particularly the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and potential sixth-generation platforms. The proposed engine, with a thrust range of 120-140kN, is a critical component of these initiatives.
A key point of negotiation has been India’s demand for 100% transfer of technology (ToT) covering design, development, certification, and production. Initially, Safran sought shared intellectual property rights (IPR) for the new engine. However, following approval from the French government, Safran is reportedly prepared to concede full IPR to India, matching a similar offer from British firm Rolls-Royce, according to idrw.org sources.
This development marks a significant step in the deepening of India-France defence collaboration, building on the strategic partnership outlined in the Defence Industrial Roadmap. The agreement on full ToT and IPR reflects a commitment to mutual trust and technological synergy, positioning both nations to co-develop cutting-edge defence capabilities for India’s next-generation fighter programs.
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