Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to meet his French counterpart Catherine Vautrin in Bengaluru on February 17, anticipating significant results from the bilateral discussions aimed at enhancing defence collaboration.
The defence cooperation agreement is anticipated to be extended for another decade, with a memorandum of understanding regarding a joint venture for "manufacturing Hammer missiles" expected to be signed during the meeting attended by both ministers, according to the defence ministry.
"Reports indicate that the two ministers are anticipated to observe the online inauguration of the H125 Light Utility Helicopter Final Assembly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron in Vemagal, Karnataka."
Singh will co-chair the sixth Annual Defence Dialogue between India and France with Catherine Vautrin, the Minister of Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs of France, in Bengaluru on February 17, according to the ministry.
Reports indicate that the meeting will examine the full spectrum of bilateral defense cooperation, emphasizing the enhancement of industrial collaboration.
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A statement is also anticipated regarding the mutual assignment of personnel at the establishments of the Indian Army and French Land Forces.
Defense has historically constituted a significant foundation of the relationship between the two nations.
The "robust and lasting bilateral connections" were clearly demonstrated in 2024-2025 via a series of prominent exchanges.
PM Modi attended the Bastille Day Parade as the Guest of Honour in July 2023, prior to the French president being the chief guest at the Republic Day Parade 2024.
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"The recent India-EU Security and Defence Partnership represents a crucial advancement in enhancing collaborative ties with European countries," states the ministry.
Additionally, cooperation between militaries is on the rise. India and France have consistently conducted three significant exercises—Exercise Shakti with the Army, Exercise Varuna with the Navy, and Exercise Garuda with the Air Force—along with various other ad-hoc collaborations.
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According to reports, this will be Vautrin's first visit to India since she assumed the role of French defence minister on October 12, 2025.