Unveiling new frontiers: India-France collaboration in the space economy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming two-day visit to Paris, scheduled for July 13-14, 2023, is set to focus on the space economy and strengthening cooperation in this sector. The economic dimension has become a significant aspect of the strategic partnership between India and France, extending beyond traditional areas such as trade, industry, and investment to encompass the thriving startup ecosystem.
Against this backdrop, the space economy emerges as a promising domain for collaboration, aligning with the evolving global space sector.
The partnership between India and France in the space sector has a strong foundation.
Both countries have made significant advancements in space technology and exploration. India’s space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has achieved notable milestones, including successful missions to the moon and Mars. France, through the Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES), has also made remarkable contributions to space exploration and technology.
The deepening cooperation in the space economy between India and France holds immense potential for both countries. The space sector is experiencing a rapid transformation globally, with increased commercialization and private sector participation. This presents opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and joint ventures that can accelerate growth and innovation in the space industry.
India’s startup ecosystem, known for its vibrant and entrepreneurial spirit, complements France’s robust technological expertise. The convergence of these strengths can foster collaborations in areas such as satellite technology, remote sensing, communication systems, and space applications. Joint initiatives and partnerships can pave the way for the development of cutting-edge technologies and solutions catering to the evolving demands of the space economy.
Furthermore, collaboration in the space sector aligns with the broader objectives of both countries. India’s space program, with its focus on socio-economic development, aims to leverage space technology for various applications, including agriculture, disaster management, telecommunication, and navigation. France’s expertise in aerospace and technology can contribute to these endeavours, providing valuable insights and technical support.
The space economy also offers avenues for bilateral trade and investment. With the increasing commercialization of space activities, opportunities for business collaborations and investments in satellite manufacturing, launch services, space tourism, and other related areas arise. Collaborative efforts in the space industry can boost economic growth, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the overall bilateral trade between India and France.
During Prime Minister Modi’s visit, discussions and agreements related to space cooperation are expected to take place. These may include the exchange of technical expertise, joint research and development initiatives, capacity-building programs, and the exploration of joint missions and satellite projects. The objective is to strengthen the ties between ISRO and CNES, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, resources, and technology transfer.
The 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between India and France holds immense significance, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit further underscores the importance of this relationship. The discussions between the leaders of both nations cover a wide range of areas, reflecting the depth and breadth of their strategic partnership.
Security cooperation is a key aspect of the India-France partnership. Both countries have a shared commitment to regional and global security. Discussions on security cooperation may include intelligence sharing, defence collaboration, joint military exercises, and counterterrorism efforts. Strengthening security ties enhances the ability of both countries to address common challenges and promote stability in the region.
Collaboration in the space sector is another prominent area of discussion. Both India and France have made significant advancements in space technology and exploration. Cooperation in this domain may involve joint missions, satellite projects, knowledge sharing, and research and development initiatives. The aim is to leverage each other’s strengths and expertise to drive innovation and progress in the space industry.
Civil-nuclear engagement is an essential component of the India-France partnership. France is a key partner in India’s civil nuclear program, and discussions may focus on cooperation in nuclear power generation, research, and safety. This collaboration contributes to India’s energy security and supports its efforts to meet its growing energy needs.
Technology partnerships are crucial for fostering innovation and economic growth. Discussions may revolve around enhancing technological collaboration in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and smart cities. By sharing knowledge and resources, both countries can leverage technological advancements to address societal challenges and drive economic development.
Counterterrorism and cybersecurity are vital concerns for both nations. Discussions may encompass sharing best practices, intelligence cooperation, capacity building, and joint efforts to combat terrorism and cyber threats. By working together, India and France can strengthen their security apparatus and protect their citizens from evolving threats.
Climate change and renewable energy are significant areas of collaboration. Given the shared commitment to addressing climate change, discussions may involve cooperation in renewable energy projects, climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity building. Both countries are also active members of the International Solar Alliance, and matters about this alliance may be discussed during the visit. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra emphasized the longstanding and comprehensive nature of the India-France partnership in the space domain.
In response to queries from Financial Express Online, he acknowledged the significant changes occurring in the global space sector, which are impacting various aspects of the space economy, including launches, payload development, and the emergence of small, micro, and nanosatellites, as well as medium and heavy satellites. These developments present immense potential for bilateral cooperation between India and France in the space sector.
The India-France partnership in space has a strong foundation and spans several areas of collaboration. Both countries have made significant strides in space technology and exploration, and their expertise aligns well with the evolving landscape of the global space sector. The rapid transformation in the space industry, including advancements in satellite technology and the emergence of new satellite categories, opens up opportunities for enhanced cooperation and joint initiatives.
India has been at the forefront of utilizing small satellites, such as micro and nano satellites, for various applications. These satellites have gained prominence due to their cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and potential for addressing various societal challenges. France, with its technological expertise, can contribute to the development and utilization of such satellites, fostering collaboration and innovation in this space.
Moreover, the emergence of medium and heavy satellites presents additional avenues for cooperation. These satellites are used for a variety of purposes, including communication, earth observation, and scientific research. Collaborative efforts in designing, manufacturing, and launching medium and heavy satellites can leverage the strengths and capabilities of both India and France, fostering technological advancements and creating economic opportunities.
The partnership between India and France in the space sector is not limited to satellite technology. It extends to space exploration, space research, and satellite applications for societal benefits. By leveraging their collective strengths and resources, both countries can drive progress and address common challenges in areas like agriculture, disaster management, climate change, and telecommunication through satellite-based applications.
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra highlighted the robust growth and deepening partnership in the field of space between India and France over the past few years. He expressed confidence in further expanding engagement during the visit, touching upon novel facets of the space economy. The collaboration between the two countries in the space domain has a rich history spanning several decades.
In the 1970s, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the French space agency CNES embarked on a collaborative journey by jointly working on the development of the Viking engine. This collaboration played a pivotal role in the subsequent creation of the Indian ‘Vikas’ engine. The Vikas engine continues to be utilized in the liquid-fueled stages of India’s rockets, including the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk III).
The partnership between ISRO and CNES in developing the Vikas engine demonstrates the long-standing cooperation and exchange of technical expertise between India and France. This collaboration not only contributed to the advancement of India’s indigenous space program but also laid the foundation for future engagements in the space domain.
Since then, India and France have strengthened their collaboration in various aspects of space exploration and technology. The partnership encompasses areas such as satellite technology, remote sensing, communication systems, and space applications. Joint initiatives and knowledge sharing have been instrumental in driving innovation and progress in the space industry.
The collaboration between ISRO and CNES extends beyond technical cooperation. It also encompasses satellite missions, research and development projects, and capacity-building programs. Both countries have benefited from the exchange of best practices and the sharing of resources, enabling them to push the boundaries of space exploration and make significant contributions to scientific and societal advancements.
During the visit, discussions are expected further to explore avenues for collaboration in the space domain. This includes exploring new dimensions of the space economy and identifying potential areas for joint research, development, and commercialization. The aim is to leverage India and France’s collective strengths and expertise to drive innovation, create economic opportunities, and address common challenges in the space sector.
India and France have collaborated on various satellite projects, including the development of satellites like ‘SARAL’ (Satellite with ARGOS and ALTIKA) and Megha-Tropiques. These joint efforts have strengthened the partnership between the two countries in the space domain. Notably, the recently launched Indian satellite, EOS-6/OceanSat, dedicated to observing and studying the oceans, carries a payload of French origin, showcasing the synergy and cooperation between India and France in satellite technology.
The collaboration between India and France extends beyond satellite development. Both countries closely cooperate on India’s ambitious Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight program, which aims to send Indian astronauts into space. This partnership highlights the shared goals and commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration.
Recognizing the contemporary challenges in the space domain, India and France have pledged to address the issue of secure access to outer space. A bilateral strategic dialogue on space issues has been established to facilitate discussions and cooperation on space-related matters. This dialogue brings together experts from space and defence agencies, administration, and specialized ecosystems to exchange ideas, formulate norms and principles applicable to space, and identify new areas of cooperation.
The strategic dialogue on space issues focuses on both security and economic aspects. It aims to address challenges related to space security, explore ways to ensure secure access to outer space and promote responsible behaviour in space activities. Additionally, the dialogue aims to identify opportunities for economic collaboration in the space sector, leveraging the strengths and capabilities of both countries.
The establishment of the bilateral strategic dialogue on space issues reflects the commitment of India and France to work together in navigating the evolving space landscape. By pooling their expertise and resources, both countries can contribute to formulating norms and principles that promote outer space’s peaceful and sustainable use.
In addition to their collaboration in the space domain, India and France are also strengthening their efforts to connect startup ecosystems and promote public-private engagement. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has taken significant steps in this direction by opening its laboratories, testing facilities, and quality infrastructure to private space companies since June 2020. This move aims to foster the growth of India’s space industry and encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.
The collaboration between India and France in the space domain is built upon prior agreements and initiatives. One such milestone agreement was signed in 2021, focusing on France’s support for India’s ambitious human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan. Under this agreement, France’s space agency, CNES, is providing valuable assistance to India in various aspects of the task.
CNES is offering training for flight physicians and mission control teams, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary expertise to handle the challenges of human spaceflight. This collaboration enables the exchange of knowledge and best practices in human spaceflight operations.
Furthermore, France is supporting scientific experiments on validation missions related to Gaganyaan. This collaboration allows for the conduct of scientific research and experimentation in space, which contributes to the advancement of space technology and our understanding of human space exploration.
The agreement also includes cooperation in the area of food packaging and spaceflight nutrition. France’s expertise in this field can aid in developing suitable packaging and nutritional requirements for astronauts during space missions. This collaboration ensures that astronauts receive proper nutrition and that food safety measures are adhered to during their missions.
The collaboration between India and France in supporting India’s space ambitions, particularly the Gaganyaan mission, reflects the strong partnership between the two countries. By leveraging France’s expertise and resources, India can benefit from their experience in human spaceflight operations, scientific research, and technological advancements.
Overall, the collaboration between India and France extends beyond technical and scientific aspects. It encompasses support for India’s space ambitions, public-private engagement, and the nurturing of startup ecosystems. These initiatives contribute to the growth and development of the space industry, foster innovation, and strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries. France’s engagement with India in the space domain has a significant history, with efforts to strengthen collaboration dating back to the establishment of a permanent liaison office in Bengaluru by CNES in 2013. Since then, the partnership has continued to grow and flourish.
In 2015, a memorandum of understanding was signed between India and France, formalizing their commitment to space cooperation. This agreement laid the foundation for enhanced collaboration and knowledge sharing in various space exploration and technology areas.
In 2018, both countries formulated a joint vision for space cooperation, further solidifying their commitment to advancing their partnership in the space domain. This joint vision served as a roadmap for future collaboration and identified key areas of focus for joint efforts.
The collaboration between India and France expanded in 2019 to encompass a wide range of areas, including maritime surveillance, climate monitoring, and joint exploration of celestial bodies such as Mars, Venus, and asteroids. These collaborative efforts reflect the shared interest of both countries in utilizing space technology for scientific research, environmental monitoring, and better understanding of the universe.
The creation of a working group specifically dedicated to India’s human spaceflight mission has been a significant milestone in the partnership between India and France. This working group has facilitated closer cooperation and exchange of expertise in areas related to human spaceflight operations, training, and scientific research.
Through these collaborative endeavours, India and France have deepened their engagement in the space domain, leveraging each other’s strengths and resources to drive innovation and progress. The partnership encompasses technical aspects, scientific research, environmental monitoring, and exploration of celestial bodies.
The space undertakings between India and France reflect both countries’ strong commitment and shared vision in utilizing space technology for the benefit of humanity.
The collaboration aims to advance scientific knowledge, promote environmental sustainability, and contribute to understanding the universe.A key agreement signed between India and France formalized a bilateral strategic dialogue, enhancing coordination and jointness between their space and defence agencies. This agreement makes France the third country, after the United States and Japan, to establish a space security dialogue with India. Notably, this dialogue represents the first such arrangement with an Asian nation for France.
The establishment of the bilateral strategic dialogue highlights the growing importance of space cooperation within the broader context of the strategic partnership between India and France. Recognizing the significance of the space economy, both countries aim to leverage their strengths and resources to unlock the full potential of this sector.
The space economy catalyzes innovation, technological advancements, and economic growth. By fostering collaboration and joint research and development initiatives, India and France can drive progress in satellite technology, remote sensing, communication systems, and space applications. This collaboration also holds the potential to shape the future of space exploration and utilization.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France is a testament to the increasing importance placed on space cooperation between the two nations. It marks a significant step in further strengthening bilateral ties and signifies India’s commitment to advancing the frontiers of space exploration.
Through this visit, India seeks to deepen its engagement in the global space economy and solidify its position as a key player. By leveraging the expertise and resources of France, India can enhance its capabilities in space technology, research, and exploration.
Moreover, the strategic dialogue between the two countries on space and defence issues provides a platform for sharing best practices, exchanging information, and formulating norms and principles for secure and responsible behaviour in outer space. This dialogue promotes mutual understanding, enhances coordination, and strengthens cooperation between India and France in space security.
