France keen on Indian long-range weapons after Op Sindoor performance

France has highlighted its keen interest in Indian weapons systems after observing their performance in Operation Sindoor. “France has observed the performance of Indian weapons systems during Operation Sindoor and is interested in looking into long-range missiles, loitering munitions and anti-drone systems,” French Army Commander General Pierre Scheele stated.

The French general visited New Delhi during the Conference of Heads of UN Troop Contributing Countries and held talks with Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, with a focus on deepening defense cooperation between the two countries.

According to a report in the Economic Times, General Shiel emphasized the importance of India’s indigenous technology, citing specific systems and recent demonstrations. He said he was interested in looking into the systems used by the Indian Army as it revamps its long-range artillery systems, alluding to the possibility of French forces acquiring long-range Pinaka missile systems. The report added that demonstrations of these systems have already been provided to French officials, with special attention paid to their cost-effectiveness and accuracy.

The French delegation praised the Indian Army’s operational use of these advanced systems, especially during Operation Sindoor. The accuracy and adaptability of these weapons have been cited by Indian forces as reasons for their appeal to France. General Schell noted that while India and France could cooperate in all areas of the new war, long-range systems and loitering munitions were of particular importance.

Both countries are seeking to expand cooperation in emerging fields such as electronic warfare and artificial intelligence. The senior French officer said the two countries could consider jointly developing capabilities in the emerging battlefield, including the fields of artificial intelligence and electronic warfare. General Schell also noted that cooperation in these areas can be very effective due to the capabilities of both militaries.

The report added that India and France are considering more extensive joint training in the future. The French general noted that India and France are looking to institutionalize the Army’s annual military exercises, based on the Shakti Series. He added that the two sides are looking not only at increasing the number of exercises but also the complexity of joint training to include drone training, counter-drone operations and electronic warfare.