Helicopter capable of landing on Mount Everest to be manufactured in India; PM Modi and Macron inaugurate assembly line

News Topical, Digital Desk : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Mumbai on Tuesday, taking India-France relations to new heights. The two leaders inaugurated the final assembly line of the Airbus H125 helicopter in Vemgal, Karnataka.

This is the first private sector helicopter manufacturing facility in India, established as a joint venture between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus. This initiative provides a strong boost to "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat." Prime Minister Modi said this is another example of the deep trust between the two countries.

A new chapter in defense cooperation and helicopter production

Prime Minister Modi said on this occasion, "We are proud that India and France will jointly make the world's only helicopter that can fly up to the height of Mount Everest. And we will also export it across the world."

The H125 helicopter is highly maneuverable in high-altitude areas. This facility will manufacture helicopters not only for the Indian market but also for regional markets. The first Made-in-India H125 helicopter is expected to be delivered in early 2027.

New impetus to economic and trade partnership

Prime Minister Modi noted that India recently concluded the largest and most ambitious Free Trade Agreement (FTA) ever with the European Union. This will provide unprecedented momentum to India-France relations. The two countries also signed an agreement to avoid double taxation, facilitating investment between people and companies.

"All these steps will inject new energy into trade, investment and movement of people. This is a roadmap for shared prosperity," PM Modi said.

Resolution against terrorism

PM Modi emphasized the need to combine France's expertise and India's scale. He said that both countries are developing trusted technologies. Human development will be ensured through the International Solar Alliance, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, and joint projects. Both countries believe in democracy, the rule of law, and a multipolar world.

The Prime Ministers stressed the need to reform global institutions to address global challenges. They reiterated support for peace efforts in Ukraine, West Asia, and the Indo-Pacific. Both sides strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms.

Condemnation of Pahalgam attack

President Macron condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April 2025. He also supported India's right to defend itself against terrorism. The two countries launched an annual Foreign Ministers' Dialogue to implement the Elevated Partnership and Horizon 2047 Roadmap. This will regularly review and strengthen cooperation.

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