France awards €50M Airbus contract for AI in military systems.
On December 10, 2025, the French Defence Procurement Agency awarded Airbus Defence and Space a €50 million contract to integrate artificial intelligence into military systems, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing reliance on foreign technology. This initiative, part of France’s strategic drive for AI sovereignty, aims to modernize key systems like Spationav, bolstering capabilities in intelligence and cybersecurity. For India, which enjoys robust defense ties with France through joint exercises and procurement, this accelerated AI integration may enhance collaborative platforms such as Rafale upgrades and Scorpene submarines, positioning both nations to better address shared geopolitical challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The endeavor signifies France’s commitment to advancing its military technology and strengthens the defense cooperation landscape crucial for regional stability.
