After Germany’s exit, India eyes France-led sixth-generation fighter programme
India is in discussions with France to join the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme following Germany's exit from the project. The collaboration aims to leverage shared operational requirements for sixth-generation fighter aircraft and strengthen the Indo-French strategic partnership.
Why it matters
This move signals a major shift in India's defense procurement strategy, moving toward high-end co-development with European partners.
The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) may very well become India's sixth-generation fighter aircraft. The ministry of defence informed Parliament in a written response that India is in talks with France to co-join the programme that is now spearheaded by France.This development takes place just two months after Germany left the programme, which also has Spain as a partner. The aircraft, which is still on the drawing board, is expected to have its first flight in 2028-29 timeframe. India's fifth generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) too is expected to have its first flight in the same time-frame.Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Nice in June set the stage for a new chapter in India‑France defence cooperation, now elevated to the level of a Special Global Strategic Partnership.
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