Macron in India: Eyes Rafale Deal, AI Cooperation, and Stronger Military Ties

• French President Emmanuel Macron begins a three-day visit to India, focusing on AI cooperation and a potential multibillion-dollar deal for Dassault Aviation Rafale fighter jets.
• France aims to deepen its military partnership with New Delhi, with talks expected on a possible contract for 114 additional French fighter jets, described as the "contract of the century."
• Macron will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and attend an artificial intelligence summit, following India's confirmation of plans for a major Rafale jet order.
• India is diversifying its military procurement away from Russia and boosting domestic defense production, with the majority of new Rafale jets expected to be manufactured in India.
• PM Modi and Macron will inaugurate India's first helicopter final assembly line, a joint venture between Tata Group and Airbus, manufacturing the Airbus H125.