New Delhi: In a significant statement underscoring growing Indo-French defence ties, French Ambassador to India Thierry Mathou has affirmed that French defence companies are ready and willing to participate in India's ‘Make in India’ programme by manufacturing locally. Speaking to media during a defence industry interaction, Mathou highlighted that France is one of the few nations showing genuine commitment to India’s goal of achieving self-reliance in defence production.
“French defence players are willing to ‘Make in India’. I’m not sure other international partners are yet ready to make such a commitment,” Ambassador Mathou remarked. He also reiterated that France not only views India as a strategic partner but also respects its vision of developing indigenous capabilities in the defence sector.
The statement comes at a time when India has been actively pursuing defence manufacturing collaborations under its 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) initiative. The Indian government has sought to reduce dependency on defence imports by encouraging foreign companies to set up joint ventures and technology transfer agreements with Indian manufacturers.
Ambassador Mathou cited examples of ongoing Indo-French collaborations in defence, such as the Rafale fighter jet deal, as models of successful partnership. He emphasized that unlike transactional relationships, France is committed to long-term cooperation with India, which includes technology sharing, co-development, and co-production.
France has been one of India’s most consistent defence partners, with ties that span several decades. The recent focus has shifted toward expanding industrial cooperation. The Naval Group’s collaboration with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders and Safran’s interest in co-developing aircraft engines with India are viewed as significant steps in this direction.
Mathou further stated that the openness of French companies to produce in India should be seen not just as a business opportunity but as a strategic choice. “We want India to become a global hub for defence manufacturing, and France is ready to be part of that journey,” he said.
He also acknowledged India’s growing defence needs, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, and reaffirmed France’s support in strengthening India’s maritime and air capabilities. According to the ambassador, defence cooperation is not limited to equipment supply but extends to training, logistics, joint exercises, and research collaboration.
India has welcomed France’s proactive stance, with defence officials describing the European partner as “reliable” and “forward-looking.” While other countries have expressed interest in defence cooperation, they often stop short of fully committing to local production under Indian terms.
Experts view this development as a positive sign for India’s ambitions to emerge as a defence manufacturing hub not just for domestic use but also for export. With major global tensions redefining supply chains and strategic alliances, India’s partnership with France may serve as a blueprint for future defence collaboration with other like-minded nations.
The ambassador’s comments reflect a strengthening bilateral relationship built on trust, transparency, and shared interests in global and regional security.
