The agreements were signed in the presence of visiting French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin and 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 that took off on Wednesday.

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.

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 CEO of Snecma Moteurs J P Herteman was also present.

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

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