Indo-French defence collaboration: French Army Chief’s visit to India

General Pierre Schill, Chief of Army Staff of French Army is on a visit to India from February 27-29. (PIB)

The French Army Chief General Pierre Schill who has arrived in India is set to witness a demonstration of the indigenous Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher, at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan. The Pinaka launcher is manufactured in India by the Tata Group.

India recently supplied the Pinaka system to Armenia amid ongoing conflicts, and interest has been expressed by Nigeria and Indonesia in acquiring the system as well.

The Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher boasts a maximum range of 40 km for the Mark-I version and 60 km for the enhanced Mark-I version. It has the capability to fire a salvo of 12 rockets in just 44 seconds.

Significance of the visit

The visit assumes importance as it comes close on the heels of the recently concluded visit of the French President Emmanuel Macron to India. He was the Chief Guest at the Republic Day celebrations and there was a French contingent which marched down the Kartavya Path.

France has proven to be a dependable defence partner for India, especially during times of crisis. India is actively seeking to establish itself in the global defense market by promoting the export of various defense platforms, including the indigenous `Tejas’ Light Combat Aircraft, the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, and the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system.

Recently, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh announced ambitious plans for India’s defence production, with expectations to reach Rs 3 lakh crore annually within the next four years, along with a projected export target of Rs 50,000 crore in military hardware.

Agenda in India

Upon his arrival in Delhi, General Schill held discussions with his Indian counterpart, General Manoj Pande, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two armies.

In addition to witnessing the Pinaka firepower demonstration, the French Army chief will engage with representatives from the defence industry on Wednesday.

According to an official statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, “He will also visit the Sapta Shakti Command in Jaipur and meet with senior military commanders.”

Before departing for France on February 29, General Pierre Schill will address officers at the National Defence College (NDC) in Delhi.

The official statement issued highlighted the shared commitment of France and India to enhance their strategic collaboration across defense, security, and technology.

“These bilateral visits and joint military exercises epitomize the enduring bond between the armed forces of both nations and reaffirm their commitment to promoting regional stability and international security,” the statement emphasized