Two Rafale fighter jets, accompanied by a multi-role tanker transport aircraft from the French Space and Air Force, soared through the skies of Delhi during India's grand Republic Day parade. French President Emmanuel Macron graced the occasion as the chief guest, adding a significant international presence to the celebrations.
Approximately 95 French troops marched down the Kartavya Path in the heart of the national capital, capturing the attention of onlookers. The whizzing warplanes, particularly the Rafale fighter jets, created a spectacle that had thousands of spectators craning their necks in awe. A notable feature was the participation of a 30-member band contingent from France, adding a musical element to the grand parade.
This marked the second time that the French armed forces joined India's Republic Day celebrations, with their first participation occurring in 2016. In a reciprocal gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had been the guest of honour at the prestigious Bastille Day Parade in Paris the previous year. The Indian Air Force's Rafale fighter jets and a tri-services marching contingent had also taken part in the Bastille Day parade.
The French military contingent that participated in the Republic Day parade comprised six Indians and was led by Captain Noel Louis from the Corps of French Foreign Legion—an elite military corps open to foreigners serving in the French Army since its establishment in 1831.
The strong defence and strategic ties between India and France have witnessed significant growth in recent years. Both countries are actively exploring co-development and co-production of advanced defence technologies, extending their collaboration for the benefit of third countries. Additionally, the bilateral cooperation is expanding in the maritime domain, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region, reinforcing the deep mutual trust and unwavering friendship between India and France.
(With Agency Inputs)
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