An important milestone in India-France industrial collaboration will be reached on February 17 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron virtually inaugurate the Final Assembly Line (FAL) for the H125 light utility helicopter.
The factory will assemble the H125 helicopter for the Indian market and for export to neighboring nations. It is situated at the Tata-Airbus complex in Karnataka. The proposal, according to European aircraft giant Airbus, is in line with its long-term plan to boost domestic manufacturing and fortify India’s aviation sector.
The H125 is one of Airbus’ best-selling civil helicopters worldwide and is frequently utilized in law enforcement, emergency medical services, tourism, and disaster relief. The strategic depth of bilateral ties is highlighted by the inauguration, which takes place in conjunction with events related to the India-France Annual Defence Dialogue.
The announcement coincides with India’s intentions to increase the number of Rafale fighter jets in its fleet, thereby strengthening defense cooperation with France.
During his official visit to India from February 17 to 19, President Macron will review the progress made under the strategic partnership between France and India, explore collaboration in defense, innovation, and emerging technologies, and attend the AI Impact Summit and hold bilateral talks in Mumbai.
Source –The Pioneer
