India-France relations: France supports underwater drones

In a bid to strengthen its defence partnership with India, France has offered India 100 per cent technology transfer for 110 kilo-Newton thrust aircraft engines and fully-capable underwater drones.

The French government has also taken a big step forward to discuss and support the construction of nuclear attack submarines. According to reports, these points are expected to be discussed during the India-France strategic dialogue between French diplomatic advisor Emmanuel Bonne and Indian diplomatic advisor Ajit Doval on September 30 in Paris.

What are underwater drones?

Underwater drones, also known as unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), are submersible vehicles that can operate underwater without a human on board. Underwater drones are cost-effective and can perform tasks in a risky and harsh environment. They allow for rapid deployment and can go deep.

They are used for various purposes like surveillance, marine research, weaponry, environmental monitoring, research and exploitation, defense and security. These drones are remotely controlled by a human operator from the land. These drones provide a technical advantage in military operations.

France has a number of underwater drones with capabilities such as the Unmanned Combat Underwater Vehicle (UCUV) and the Seasam. The UCUV is a large drone with a hydrodynamic hull, a large side-beam sonar, and a payload bay.

India wants to strengthen its defense measures

France is a reliable arms supplier to India. This offer from France comes at a time when the Indian Navy is approaching the Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for building two nuclear attack submarines for future operations.

India is looking for a partner to develop an engine capable of producing at least 110 kN of thrust for its future aircraft projects, such as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). Safran, an international high-technology group, operating in the fields of aeronautics (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space, has offered to jointly design, develop and produce the engine for India.

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