French Army Chief General Pierre Schill, visiting New Delhi for the UN Troop Contributing Countries Chiefs conference, expressed strong interest in India’s long-range weapon systems, loitering munitions, and emerging battlefield technologies, highlighting potential avenues for deeper Indo-French defence cooperation.
Speaking to the media, General Schill specifically praised India’s indigenous missile and artillery capabilities, citing their effectiveness during Operation Sindoor as a demonstration of India’s combat-tested innovation. He revealed that France is exploring the acquisition of India’s extended-range Pinaka rocket system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), describing it as a cost-effective, precise solution compatible with French operational needs. Earlier demonstrations of the system for French officials have already showcased its battlefield potential.
In addition to long-range rockets, the French Army Chief expressed keen interest in India’s loitering munitions and counter-drone systems, noting India’s operational versatility and rapid adoption of unmanned technologies during precision strikes. Systems such as India’s SAKSHAM counter-drone platform drew particular attention for their real-time battlefield utility.
General Schill emphasized the importance of electronic warfare (EW) and artificial intelligence (AI) in modern conflicts, suggesting that joint AI-driven command and targeting solutions could enhance situational awareness and tactical responsiveness for both nations. He highlighted opportunities for knowledge-sharing in these domains as unmanned and hybrid warfare increasingly define contemporary battlefields.
The visit also reaffirmed plans to institutionalize annual bilateral army exercises, building upon the ongoing Shakti series. Future exercises are expected to incorporate complex scenarios involving UAV operations, counter-drone missions, and EW drills, reflecting the evolving strategic priorities of both armies.
General Schill’s remarks underscore a growing strategic alignment between Paris and New Delhi, with cooperation focused on high-technology, precision, and multi-domain warfare. This collaboration complements India’s self-reliance drive in defence technologies and France’s intent to diversify its defence partnerships beyond Europe, fostering a new era of Indo-French military collaboration.
