Rajnath Singh and French Defence Minister Vautrin to Lead 6th India-France Defence Dialogue in Bengaluru
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh is set to co-chair the 6th India–France Annual Defence Dialogue alongside Catherine Vautrin, France’s Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, in Bengaluru on February 17, 2026. This high-level meeting will focus on evaluating the broad spectrum of bilateral defence cooperation, with a significant emphasis on enhancing defence-industrial collaboration.
During the discussions, both parties are anticipated to extend the bilateral defence cooperation agreement for another ten years. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is likely to be signed regarding a joint venture for manufacturing HAMMER precision-guided munitions, in the presence of both Defence Ministers. Further announcements are expected concerning the reciprocal deployment of officers between the Indian Army and French Land Forces establishments, aimed at deepening professional military engagements.
The ministers will also participate in the virtual inauguration of the H125 Light Utility Helicopter Final Assembly Line of Tata Airbus in Vemagal, Karnataka. This event, conducted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron, marks a significant milestone in industrial cooperation under the Make in India initiative.
Defence is a cornerstone of India–France relations, bolstered by ongoing political engagement and strong military-to-military cooperation. The two nations regularly conduct major tri-service exercises—Exercise Shakti (Army), Exercise Varuna (Navy), and Exercise Garuda (Air Force)—along with other joint activities. This dialogue in Bengaluru will be Ms. Vautrin’s first visit to India as Defence Minister and is expected to further direct and fortify the strategic partnership, building on recent high-level exchanges and the evolving India–EU security framework.
