Unlocking a deeper tech collaboration across multiple defence areas, a fresh India-France defence push eyes to enable joint research, training, and high-end innovation.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and France’s Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) have signed a new technical agreement to expand cooperation in defence research and development (R&D).
The agreement was formalised in New Delhi on 20 November 2025 by DRDO Chairman and Secretary, Defence R&D, Dr Samir V. Kamat, and France’s National Armaments Director, Lt Gen Gael Diaz de Tuesta.
The pact establishes a structured framework for deeper engagement between the two organisations. It is designed to harness shared expertise and accelerate the development of advanced technologies for future security needs.
Furthermore, the arrangement covers joint research projects, specialised training, testing activities and regular exchanges of technical information. It also enables the two sides to host workshops and seminars to support skill development and knowledge sharing in critical defence domains.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) highlighted that another notable element of the agreement is the two-way transfer of equipment, know-how and technologies. This is expected to streamline collaborative work and strengthen industrial and scientific ties between the two countries.
The scope of cooperation spans a wide range of strategic areas. These include aeronautical platforms, unmanned systems, advanced materials for defence use, cyber security, artificial intelligence, space systems, precision navigation, next-generation propulsion, advanced sensors and emerging quantum technologies. Underwater systems and other mutually identified fields will also be pursued.
Officials from both sides expressed confidence that the partnership will accelerate innovation, reinforce national security priorities, and advance global defence technology.
