Macron Visits India to Strengthen Defense and AI Ties

French President Emmanuel Macron is visiting India for three days to strengthen defense and AI cooperation. He is meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai to discuss expanding military ties, including the potential purchase of 114 Rafale fighter jets and other military equipment worth $40 billion. Macron will also attend the AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, highlighting growing collaboration between the two nations in technology, defense, and trade.

French President Emmanuel Macron has arrived in India for a three-day visit aimed at strengthening defense and artificial intelligence (AI) cooperation between the two nations. During his trip, Macron is scheduled to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai, where the leaders are expected to discuss expanding their military partnership and exploring new avenues for collaboration. Following the Mumbai meeting, Macron will attend the global AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, highlighting the importance both countries place on technological advancement and innovation.
Macron’s office said the visit seeks to further strengthen cooperation with India and diversify France’s economic and trade partnerships. Reflecting the warm diplomatic ties between the two leaders, Modi welcomed Macron as a “dear friend” in a social media post and expressed his anticipation for their discussions.
The visit coincides with significant developments in India’s defense sector. An Indian government panel recently gave preliminary approval for the purchase of additional Rafale fighter jets and maritime patrol aircraft, in deals valued at roughly $40 billion. While India has not disclosed the exact number of jets or pricing, initial reports suggest the clearance paves the way for the acquisition of 114 Rafale jets along with other military equipment. Christophe Jaffrelot, a professor of Indian politics at Sciences Po Center for International Studies in Paris, described the potential deal as the “contract of the century” and a possible “crowning achievement” for bilateral ties.
Maintaining air power remains a strategic priority for India, which faces persistent security challenges along its borders with nuclear-armed neighbors Pakistan and China. In recent years, New Delhi has sought to reduce its military dependence on Russia, historically India’s largest defense supplier, while simultaneously boosting domestic defense production. Since 2015, India has purchased 26 Rafale jets worth approximately $8.7 billion, and in April 2025, it announced a new multibillion-dollar deal to acquire an additional 26 Rafale marine fighter jets.
Macron’s visit underscores France’s growing role as a key defense and technology partner for India, and the discussions on AI and military cooperation are expected to reinforce the strategic and economic ties between the two nations. Both governments appear committed to deepening collaboration across defense, technology, and trade, signaling a new phase in the longstanding bilateral relationship.