India will become the world’s largest aerospace…PM Modi along with Macron inaugurated the assembly line of H125 helicopters
Maharashtra: On 17 February 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron took an important step. He virtually inaugurated the final assembly line of Tata-Airbus’ H125 light utility helicopter at Vemagal, Karnataka during the bilateral meeting in Mumbai. This is India’s first private sector helicopter assembly line, which takes India-France cooperation to new heights.
Inauguration of helicopter assembly line
This joint project is between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus Helicopters. H125 helicopter is very popular in the world. It is for civil use, but can prove useful for the military as well. Prime Minister Modi said that India and France together will make a helicopter that can fly to the height of Mount Everest.
This will be very beneficial for the Himalayan regions and high altitude areas. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, French Defense Minister and Indian Air Force Chief were also present at the inauguration ceremony. This is a big step to strengthen the ‘Make in India’ campaign. This will increase employment and India will move forward in defense exports.
VIDEO | Mumbai, Maharashtra: Prime Minister Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) and French President Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) digitally unveil the final assembly line of H-125 helicopters.
(Source: Third Party)
(Full video available on https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/dyiEfMJJAL
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 17, 2026
Announcement of Special Global Strategic Partnership
Before the inauguration both the leaders gave a joint statement. Prime Minister Modi described France as India’s oldest strategic partner. He said that together with President Macron, both the countries have given unprecedented depth to the relations. Now both the countries have given the status of ‘Special Global Strategic Partnership’ to their relations. Modi said that it is based on trust and shared vision.
Macron also said that this partnership is based on trust, openness and ambition. He decided to give it a new look. Both leaders said that this partnership will bring stability at a time of global uncertainty.
Comprehensive talks between India and France
The two leaders held detailed talks on trade, defence, energy and critical technologies at Lok Bhawan in Mumbai. Macron has come to India on a three-day visit. He is participating in the AI Impact Summit. Both also launched the India-France Innovation Year 2026. This will provide new possibilities to startups, research and business leaders.
Recently India has approved the purchase of 114 Rafale fighter aircraft from France. This visit will further strengthen defense cooperation. Prime Minister Modi warmly welcomed Macron in Mumbai. He said that France is special for India and both the countries will together face global challenges.
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