Bangalore: India and France on February 6 signed four agreements in the field of aerospace and education, with the public sector Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and French major Snecma Moteurs being the drivers of this co-operation, in the presence of visiting French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin.

As Raffarin witnessed the signing ceremony along with India's Minister of State for Defence (Production and Supplies) O Rajgopal, HAL and Snecma inked the pact for formation of a joint venture which would become a centre of excellence in the manufacturing of key components, investment castings, and equipment dedicated to aeronautic engines.

Chairman of HAL, N R Mohanty, and chairman of Snecma Jean Paul Bechat signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organisations at Aero India 2003, ranked among Asia's top air shows, which took off on February 5.

HAL also joined hands with Turbomeka, a Snecma subsidiary, for jointly developing a high power "Shakti" Ardien engine and its co-production for HAL's Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). Chairman of Turbomeka, Emeric D' Arkimo, signed the deal with Mohanty.

HAL entered into a purchase contract with Snecma Moteurs for supply of forgings, rolled rings and precision blade forgings by the former to the French company. Chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of Snecma Moteurs J P Herteman was present.

Bangalore-headquartered HAL also signed a framework agreement with Institute Aeronautique et Spatial of France.

"This is for developing a long-term educational co-operation between India and France on the latest aerospace technologies and its management," HAL official said.

PTI