France backs 'Make in India' in defence, signals new model for Rafale deal ahead of Modi visit
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500+ questions on Current Affairs & GK with explanations
📌 Summary:
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Ahead of PM Modi's visit to France for the G7 Summit, French diplomatic sources (June 11, 2026) said future India-France defence cooperation, including the proposed Rafale deal, will be aligned with "Make in India" and based on an equal partnership.
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The proposed procurement of 114 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force would be structured differently from previous deals — with greater indigenous manufacturing and technology transfer.
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Signals a shift from off-the-shelf imports toward co-development and domestic production of defence platforms.
🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS3 (Defence indigenisation, technology transfer) and GS2 IR (India-France strategic partnership) — relevant to self-reliance in defence (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and reducing import dependence.
📝 Prelims Facts:
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Rafale is a multirole fighter built by France's Dassault Aviation.
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India earlier procured 36 Rafale jets in flyaway condition; the new tranche involves 114 aircraft.
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"Make in India" was launched in 2014 to promote domestic manufacturing.
🔑 Key Term: Transfer of Technology (ToT) — a defence-deal provision where the seller shares manufacturing know-how, enabling local production and indigenisation.
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