General Upendra Dwivedi, during his visit to Marseille, was updated on the French Army’s modernization program, Scorpion, which focuses on updating combat capabilities. The visit fosters stronger defense ties and includes discussions on training cooperation, upcoming military exercises, and ongoing defense agreements between India and France, including fighter jets and submarines.
General Upendra Dwivedi, the Indian Army chief, recently visited Marseille where he received insights into the French Army’s Scorpion programme, aimed at enhancing combat capabilities with advanced platforms. This visit is part of Dwivedi’s four-day trip, which commenced on January 24 and is focused on strengthening defense ties between India and France.
As part of his itinerary, General Dwivedi will participate in live firing exercises in Carpiagne and pay tribute at the Neuve Chapelle Indian War Memorial, commemorating World War I sacrifices. His discussions at the École de Guerre will cover the evolving landscape of warfare and align with India’s strategic defense vision.
The visit underscores the bilateral cooperation bolstered during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent trip to France, where a roadmap for advancing artificial intelligence collaboration was established. This partnership aims to fortify mutual interests in science and innovative sectors.
In addition to the discussions, India is poised to finalize agreements for 26 Rafale-M fighter jets and three Scorpene-class submarines. The Rafale-M deal, valued at approximately ₹50,000 crore, will fulfill interim naval requirements while India advances its indigenous aircraft development.
The procurement of additional Scorpene-class submarines, built in Mumbai under Project 75, is crucial for enhancing India’s maritime capabilities amidst regional challenges, notably concerning China’s influence in the Indian Ocean. MDL has successfully produced six Kalvari-class submarines through technology transfer from French company Naval Group, establishing a framework for future collaborations in defense.
General Dwivedi’s visit to France emphasizes the strengthening of India-France defense cooperation, particularly in the realms of modern combat technology and military training. The ongoing collaboration in defense manufacturing and the introduction of advanced fighter jets and submarines reflect the strategic partnership’s commitment to addressing contemporary security challenges.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
