India expands military ties with Japan and France

India is expanding its strategic military partnerships through enhanced cooperation with Japan and formal efforts to join France's Future Combat Air System (FCAS).

Japan and India are deepening their military alliance in the Indo-Pacific, with plans to deploy Japanese F-2 fighter jets to Indian territory for joint exercises. This initiative aims to increase military integration and maritime security in response to growing Chinese military activity in the region. The partnership also includes defense technology cooperation, such as the Japanese UNICORN antenna system for military vessels.

Separately, the Indian Ministry of Defence has initiated coordinated efforts to participate in the French-led FCAS program. This sixth-generation aerial combat system integrates manned fighters, collaborative drones, and