From Everest Heights To Global Markets: India And France Begin Joint Helicopter Production

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron took a big step together in Mumbai today. The two inaugurated the final assembly line of the Airbus H125 helicopter in Vemagal, Karnataka through video conference. This is India's first private sector helicopter manufacturing line, which is a joint venture between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus.

What did Modi ji say?

Modi ji said, "We are feeling proud that India and France together will make a helicopter in India which is the only one in the world that can fly to the height of Mount Everest. And we will also export it all over the world." He also said that the relationship between the two countries has no boundaries – it can extend from the deep sea to the highest peaks.

How special is this helicopter?

This H125 light utility helicopter is famous for flying at high altitude. It will be very useful for Indian Army, Civil Aviation, Rescue and Medical Emergency in areas like Himalayas. This is a great example of 'Make in India' and 'Self-reliant India'. Hundreds of helicopters will be manufactured from here in the next years – 10 in the first year, then it will increase gradually. Along with this, maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities have also started. The first fully 'Made in India' H125 will be delivered in early 2027. It will also be exported to South Asia.

What else happened in the meeting?

• India-France Defense Cooperation Agreement was renewed for 10 years.
• The big deal for 114 Rafale fighter jets is now in the final stage.
• An agreement was signed to avoid double taxation, so that investment and business become easier.
• The decision to launch an annual Foreign Ministers' Dialogue – this will examine the Horizon 2047 roadmap for 2023.
• Both strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms. Macron condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack of April 2025 and fully supported India's right to defend itself.

Why does all this matter?

All this is further strengthening the India-France strategic partnership. Modi ji said that by combining the expertise of France and the scale of India, trusted technology is being created. Both emphasized democracy, rule of law and multipolar world. They talked about adopting the path of dialogue and diplomacy for peace in Ukraine, West Asia and Indo-Pacific.

Overall, today is a day of pride for both the countries—where, from the heights of Everest to the deep sea, India and France stand shoulder to shoulder. This is a clear message of the success of 'Make in India' and global cooperation.