India–France to Hold 6th Annual Defence Dialogue in Bengaluru, Focus on Industrial & Strategic Expansion

Bengaluru, February 17, 2026: India and France are set to further deepen their strategic partnership as Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh co-chairs the 6th India–France Annual Defence Dialogue with France’s Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs Catherine Vautrin in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

The high-level ministerial dialogue will comprehensively review the entire spectrum of bilateral defence cooperation, with a strong emphasis on expanding defence industrial collaboration. A key highlight is the expected renewal of the India–France defence cooperation agreement for another 10 years. In addition, an MoU for a Joint Venture to manufacture Hammer missiles in India is likely to be signed in the presence of both Defence Ministers.

An important announcement regarding reciprocal deployment of officers between the Indian Army and the French Land Forces establishments is also anticipated, further strengthening military-to-military ties.

During the visit, the two leaders are expected to virtually witness the inauguration of the H125 Light Utility Helicopter Final Assembly Line of Tata Airbus at Vemagal, Karnataka. The event will be attended virtually by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron, underscoring the strategic importance of the partnership.

Defence has long remained a cornerstone of India–France relations. The robust bilateral ties were prominently showcased during 2023–2025, including PM Modi’s participation as Guest of Honour at France’s Bastille Day Parade in July 2023 and President Macron’s presence as Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day Parade 2024.

The partnership has also expanded in the multilateral domain, with the recent India–EU Security & Defence Partnership marking a significant step toward enhanced engagement with European nations.

Military cooperation between the two countries continues to grow, with regular tri-service engagements such as Exercise Shakti (Army), Exercise Varuna (Navy), and Exercise Garuda (Air Force), along with several other operational interactions.

This marks the maiden visit of Ms Catherine Vautrin to India since assuming office on October 12, 2025. The India–France Annual Defence Dialogue remains a structured ministerial-level mechanism to review and guide bilateral defence and security cooperation. The previous (5th) edition was held in France from October 11–13, 2023.

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