Mount Everest Helicopter/sbkinews.in
Mumbai/Bengaluru, Feb 18, 2026 – In a landmark boost to India-France defence and aerospace ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to develop the world’s first helicopter capable of flying over Mount Everest. The duo inaugurated the assembly line for Airbus H125 helicopters in Bengaluru during Macron’s four-day visit, marking a new era in strategic partnership. This collaboration, highlighted in a joint press conference, underscores deepening bilateral relations amid global uncertainties.
The announcement came after Modi and Macron jointly opened the state-of-the-art Airbus H125 assembly facility in Karnataka’s aerospace hub. Speaking at the event, Modi described it as “a shining example of the deep friendship between our nations.” The H125, known for its versatility in high-altitude operations, will be customized for extreme environments like the Everest region, positioning India as a global leader in helicopter manufacturing. “This is the only helicopter assembly of its kind in the world being set up in India,” Modi emphasized, highlighting how French expertise meets India’s vast market potential.
Strategic Elevation: From Partnership to Global Alliance
Macron arrived in Mumbai late Wednesday night, kicking off high-level talks co-chaired by the two leaders. The meetings elevated India-France ties to “Special Global Strategic Partnership” status, committing both nations to prioritize each other on the world stage. Modi noted, “India and France share a very special relationship. France is one of India’s oldest strategic partners.” This upgrade builds on decades of cooperation, now fortified against a volatile global landscape.
In today’s uncertain times, Modi said, “India-France collaboration emerges as a strong pillar of global stability.” He praised the synergy of France’s technological prowess and India’s expansive market, fostering reliable supply chains. The leaders formalized this vision by establishing the partnership as “Special Global Strategic Partnership,” a step that promises enhanced cooperation in defence, energy, and beyond.
Key Deals Sealed: Aerospace, Defence, and Green Energy
The summit yielded 21 agreements across sectors, with standout pacts in aerospace and defence. A pivotal deal between India’s Centre for Engine Excellence (CEL) and French firm Safran will produce HAMMER missiles locally, bolstering India’s self-reliance in precision weaponry. The Airbus H125 assembly line inauguration is the crown jewel, enabling full indigenization of the helicopter – from components to final rollout – for domestic and export markets.
Other major agreements include:
Defence R&D and Tech Transfer: Joint ventures on sensitive technologies and research.
Maritime Cooperation in Indo-Pacific: Enhanced naval patrols and security dialogues.
Clean Energy Push: Initiatives for green hydrogen and renewable projects.
Emerging Tech and Aerospace: Collaborations in AI, space, and high-altitude aviation.
These pacts align with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, creating jobs and export opportunities. The H125 facility alone is expected to generate thousands of skilled positions in Bengaluru, a hotspot for India’s booming aviation sector.
Modi-Macron Vision: Stability in Turbulent Times
Addressing global volatility, Modi stressed, “In this era of upheavals, our partnership provides a robust foundation.” The leaders discussed aerospace innovations, with the Everest-capable helicopter symbolizing ambition. Customized for thin air at 8,848 meters, it could revolutionize Himalayan rescues, tourism, and military ops. France’s Safran and Airbus bring cutting-edge rotor tech, while Indian engineers handle assembly.
Macron echoed the sentiment, calling the ties “indispensable for a multipolar world.” The Mumbai summit follows recent defence deals like Rafale jets, cementing France as India’s top arms supplier. With India’s defence budget surging and France seeking Asian footholds, this alliance eyes joint ventures in submarines and drones.
Broader Implications for India-France Ties
This visit reinforces economic pillars: trade hit $15 billion last year, targeting $20 billion by 2030. Sectors like renewables and digital tech feature prominently. Macron’s itinerary includes Ahmedabad and Jaipur, blending business with cultural exchanges.
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TOI : source
