“I’m ‘Made in India’ Too”: PM Modi Laughs at French Executive’s Remark During Safran Event

A brief but memorable joke stole the spotlight during what was otherwise a formal inauguration ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a hearty laugh when Ross McInnes, Chairman of the French defence major Safran, made a witty remark blending humour with diplomacy.

Addressing the audience, McInnes revealed that he also had a personal connection to the “Make in India” vision. “I would like to express my attachment to this because I was born in India. So, I’m ‘Made in India’ too,” he said, eliciting laughter from PM Modi and warm applause from the gathering.

PM Modi, who attended the event virtually, smiled in response to the unexpected quip, creating a light-hearted moment at the inauguration of Safran’s new Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility for aviation engines in Hyderabad on Wednesday. The Prime Minister highlighted India’s growing role as a dependable partner for global defence companies and a trusted destination for international investors.

During the event, McInnes also praised the Indian Air Force’s performance in Operation Sindoor. He noted, “We have an agreement with Bharat Electronics to produce HAMMER missiles, which your Air Force used so skillfully and effectively recently.”

Safran executives used the occasion to reaffirm their long-term commitment to India’s defence ecosystem, particularly as New Delhi advances its fifth-generation stealth aircraft programme.

Safran CEO Olivier Andries announced that the company is prepared to offer complete engine technology transfer for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project. The initial prototypes for the indigenous fighter jet programme are currently under development.

Andries added that Safran will work closely with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to address both technical and commercial aspects of the joint engine development initiative. Speaking after the inauguration of the company’s LEAP engine MRO facility-which services engines powering A320 and Boeing 737 narrow-body aircraft-he reiterated Safran’s commitment to deeper collaboration.

A groundbreaking ceremony was also held for a second dedicated MRO facility for M88 engines, which power India’s Rafale fighter jets. Both upcoming facilities will be located in Hyderabad, further strengthening India’s position as an aerospace hub.

Safran has stated that if the Indian Air Force places additional orders for Rafale jets, the company is ready to set up a final assembly line for Rafale engines and critical components in India.

The Paris-based high-technology company has maintained a presence in India for nearly seven decades, contributing essential systems such as engines, landing gear, and electrical components to the Rafale fleet and other defence platforms.