INDIAN AEROSPACE INDUSTRY AT AN INFLECTION POINT

Aero India 2025 is a golden opportunity for all stakeholders, from policymakers to DRDO, PSUS and private industry, to come together and showcase their commitment to not only make India Atmanirbhar in Aerospace but also be a reliable and capable exporter of aerospace products

- R.G.K. KAPOOR

THE NATION IS GEARING UP FOR THE 15TH EDITION OF AERO India, the biennial air show held at Bengaluru. It is also amongst the largest air shows in Asia. From its humble beginnings in 1996 when 22 countries participated and 65 aircraft were on display, the air show has gained tremendous popularity. Aero India 2023 attracted 809 exhibitors from over 100 countries and this edition is expected to surpass these numbers. India's aerospace sector is undeniably at an inflection point-rapidly evolving through advancements in technology, strategic collaborations, and an increasingly robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem. India from traditionally being the leading arms importers in the world for many years is now placed among the top 25 exporters of arms in the world, thanks to the growth in domestic defence industry.

Beginning with participation of only the IAF aircraft in the first Aero India, this edition will witness participation of air arms of all three services. Aerospace power has been the primary tool of national power since World War II, this is highlighted by the growing air arms of both, Army and Navy. Add to this attractive market is the tremendous growth in civil aviation in the country. The commercial airlines presently operate around 822 aircraft, this number is likely to go up to 3,800 in next 20 years.

Major events planned during the air show are, Defence Minister’s conclave, CEO’s roundtable and events by the Indian Air Force, Indian Navy and Indian Army. Bilateral meetings are planned for the Defence Minister, Chief of Defence Staff, Chiefs of the IAF, IN and IA with their counterparts. Bilateral meetings are also likely between Leadership in MoD, DRDO, PSUs, Private industry with their counterparts from participating nations. This would be an ideal platform to signal the nation’s intent to the world that Indian aerospace sector is inclusive and ready to collaborate and produce quality products for the world market.