India’s Rise as a Global Defence and Aerospace Hub at Aero India 2025
Aero India 2025 showcased India’s growing stature as both a significant market and an emerging Aerospace and Defence technology manufacturing hub of the world
B Shekhar/Yelahanka Air Base Station/Bengaluru
From being considered a ‘sleeping giant’ in the global Aerospace and Defence (A&D) ecosystem till a decade ago, India is now defining the future of this highly mission critical sector in the world. Led by a series of reform measures as well as the work carried out in developing the right kind of infrastructure and strong backbone support systems from the government, India has done all in these in just a matter of one decade.
Check out the statistics it rolled out in the Aero India 2025 mega show in Bengaluru which recently concluded with a bang creating a vibrant business aura in the Aerospace and Defence sector: 930 International Exhibitors including the who-is-who in the A&D sector. Display of 34 aircraft including the latest Russia’s Su-57 and America’s F-35, 500 delegates from 70 countries including 115 global CEOs, Defence Ministers from 26 countries.
Aero India 2025 showcased the India’s strategic defence partnerships and capability development to the world. Aero India 2025 has emerged as a landmark event in India’s defence ecosystem, showcasing the nation’s growing stature as both a significant market and an emerging producer of Aerospace and defence technology. The unprecedented participation of military leaders from diverse nations, coupled with engagements with global A&D industry giants, underscores India’s pivotal role in shaping international partnerships. The exhibition’s success not only highlights India’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in A&D manufacturing but also positions the country as a reliable partner for joint development and production of advanced military systems, marking a significant step toward realizing the vision of ‘Make in India, Make for the World.’
Delivering his inaugural speech at the Aero India 2025 event, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh said: “India is going through a transformational phase, rapidly moving from a developing to a developed nation. A vibrant and thriving defence industry ecosystem has been created in the country due to a concerted, sustained and well thought out roadmap by the Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The defence industrial sector, which was earlier not viewed as a component of national economy, has today been fully integrated with the overall economy. The sector is now a motor, powering the growth engine of the Indian economy”.
Since the last one decade, India is going through a revolutionary phase of transformation and is moving towards becoming a global leader in the Defence innovation and Aerospace technology. Over 65-70 percent of defence equipment was imported a decade ago but today almost the same percentage of weapons/platforms are being manufactured on the Indian soil. India now is at juncture where many defence products, including fighter jets, missile systems and naval vessels, are not only protecting our borders, but also catching the attention of the world. From small artillery to large platforms like Brahmos and Akash missile system, India is exporting a variety of products to several countries. India has also forged new partnerships at the global level, which has resulted in increased defence exports.
The Political, Bureaucratic and Academic engagements held during Aero India 2025 not only strengthen India’s position as an emerging Aerospace and Defense manufacturing hub but also augment the nation’s vision of achieving self-reliance in A&D production while fostering meaningful international partnerships for global security cooperation. These strategic interactions underscore India’s focus on self-reliance, innovation and the development of robust international A& D collaborations.
History in the making: American and Russian stealth fighters at the show
One of the key exhibits that created waves and increased the adrenal on the clear blue Bengaluru skies was the sorties by American and Russian Stealth fighters. For the first time in history, Aero India 2025 witnessed the participation of two of the world’s most advanced fifth-generation fighter aircraft—the Russian Su-57 and the American F-35 Lightning II. This was a milestone in global defence collaboration and technological advancement as it showcased unparalleled opportunity to witness many state-of-the-art warplanes.
Russia’s premier stealth multi-role fighter, designed for robust air superiority and strike capabilities and America’s -35 Lightning II fighter aircraft, which is, as per the Ministry, the most widely-deployed fifth-generation fighter that offers unprecedented situational awareness and networked combat capabilities and advanced stealth. This makes India a key hub for international defence and aerospace collaboration.
Not to be left out in the razor-sharp aerospace race, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) showcased indigenously designed and developed Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) at the Asia biggest aero show.
Similarly, several key announcements both by Government entities and Public Private Partnerships have highlighted India’s growing capabilities in specific sectors vis-à-vis drone technology, high-performance computing and next-generation AI propped defence systems. These co-creation and co-development collaborations with domestic and overseas majors at Aero India 2025 demonstrate India’s growing prowess in A&D tech space and its commitment to self-reliance.
Moreso the focus on indigenous development, AI integration and strategic partnerships is driving the India’s emergence as one of the key major players in the global Aerospace and defence landscape.
India: Fast emerging global player in the A&D Sector
India is emerging has an aerospace and defence (A&D) manufacturing hub offering a big business opportunity not only to Large corporate entities, but MSMEs as well. With nine defence public sector undertakings, 41 ordinance factories, an exclusive research organisation and more than 300 private companies, India undoubtedly has a huge A&D industrial base.
The process of transformation, which begun a decade ago, is now showing encouraging signs of the A&D industry emerging as a major factor in India’s increasing self-reliance, as well as, the export-oriented sector, with the potential and capacity to provide world-class opportunities for established firms in the global market.
The fresh impetus given to the Make in India initiative by Modi’s ‘vocal for local’ call and prioritized indigenization of the A&D sector in particular, has spring-boarded India not just as an R&D hub but also as a centre for precision manufacturing of complex and mission critical parts and components. A refreshed focus on attracting global players to manufacture in India to reduce imports has provided the necessary boost to this sector.
Over the years, A&D sector in India has matured and is today leading the growth of manufacturing sector from the front by encouraging adoption of international quality standards and establishing technologically advanced manufacturing facilities. Several Indian companies have proven themselves capable of providing first-time correct quality (FTCQ) comparable to global standards.
The domestic capability is being significantly enhanced, through extensive tie-ups, joint venture and technology transfers. Fundamental strength in the Indian Industry already exists, in the form of a large number of Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs), which in the past have been suppliers at the sub-component and component level, for aerospace DPSUs, HAL, DRDO, ISRO etc.
These companies are now gradually transforming themselves into major A&D players, by way of upgrading with cutting edge technologies to become suppliers for global aerospace companies vying to outsource products and components from India.
India’s most opportune time
Experts opine that the world is rethinking its business strategy of putting all eggs in one basket. Meaning looking at India as a major Sourcing and Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) hub. Government and industry need to work together as a nation to tap into this opportunity with a mix of policy initiatives, entrepreneurship and skilled talent.
For example, incentivizing industrial clusters and creating dedicated financing options will help manufacturers, especially SMEs, to expedite implementation of Industry 4.0. Encouraging vocational education and training programmes should become a priority to ensure a continuous supply of highly qualified talent. Finally, a more collaborative effort across multiple stakeholders – academia, public and private industry, and service providers – will be important to propel India into a global hub for A&D manufacturing.
Conclusion:
India’s Aerospace and Defence sector is rearing to go since, it is still largely untapped with huge growth potential both at domestic and overseas arena. It is just that the industry stakeholders should engage and collaborate with policymakers to implement efficient and rational decisions that would propel India’s A&D sector to greater heights. With the right policies and relentless focus on quality, cost and end-customer interest, it is just a matter of time that, India would become the most preferred A&D investment destination of the world as showcased in the Aero India Show 2025.
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India
“The doors are open for innovation, the policies are supportive, and the opportunity is unprecedented. Together, we will make India not just Aatmanirbhar in defence but a global leader in defence manufacturing.”
Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister of India
”Our country is witnessing a quantum leap in defence preparedness under the visionary leadership of our Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi. The last decade has heralded an unparalleled transformation, be it preparedness of our Armed Forces, Jointness and Integration of the Services, defence modernisation and providing a technological edge to our forces. Our efforts are also directed towards harnessing the best talent in terms of futuristic and cutting-edge defence technologies by nurturing and facilitating a vibrant defence industrial ecosystem.”
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh “The private sector is going to play a big role in the economic mainstreaming. Due to its drive, resilience and entrepreneurship, the sector is capable of bringing a new wave of prosperity in the country. In many advanced countries, private industry has led defence production. The time has come that, here as well, the sector becomes an equal partner in the defence industry,”
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh addressing the CEO Roundtable
The issuance of Positive Indigenisation list is a clear indicator to the Government’s intent to support the industry in its self-reliance pursuit. Over 500 start-ups and MSMEs are presently working under the aegis of Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX). Our overall ease of doing business environment has improved tremendously. This is showing great results as India has the 3rd largest start-up ecosystem in the world today; this is expected to witness Year on Year growth of 10-12%. We possess a young generation of highly-skilled workforce, which constantly updates itself in the face of the fast-changing ecosystem of the world. You must not miss the opportunity to leverage the advantages of this ecosystem”.
Shri. Sanjay Seth, Minister of State for Defence
India’s Defence exports have been demonstrating significant growth, aligning strategically with the Nation’s objective of becoming a Global Defence manufacturing Hub. This progress is directly tied to the overarching vision of “Make in India, Make for the World,” a policy framework designed to foster self-reliance in Defence production while contributing to international security needs.
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan
‘Where Innovation Takes Flight’, Aero India 2025 showcases our nation’s growing strength and technological advancements in the aerospace sector. It reflects the remarkable strides we are making in defence modernisation and self-reliance, while also fostering global collaboration and partnerships. Unleashing India’s Aerospace Potential – Aero India serves as a platform for innovation, strategic discussions and promoting India’s aerospace potential on the world stage. This premier aerospace exhibition showcases our indigenous capabilities and facilitates knowledge sharing between defence and civil industries. I commend all participants for making this Asia’s premier aerospace exhibition a grand success and advancing India’s defence capabilities. I encourage all stakeholders to explore new opportunities for growth, ensuring a secure and resilient future for our nation and the world.
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan: High-level engagements
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan held multiple high-level engagements at Aero India 2025, demonstrating India’s willingness to forge strategic defence partnerships. Key interactions included meetings with General Kevin B Schneider, Commander Pacific Air Force (USA), Lord Vernon Coaker , Minister of State for Defence (UK) and Air Vice Marshal Suraya Marshall (UK), Lt. Gen Ibrahim Nasser Al Alawi (UAE), Maj Gen Duong Van Yen (Vietnam), Maj Gen Ro Jone Kalouniwai Logavatu (Fiji), General Paul Velentino Phiri (Malawi), Lt Gen Salum Haji Othman (Tanzania) and Vice Admiral Exon Oswaldo Ascencio Albeno (El Salvador). The discussions centered on enhanced military cooperation, capacity building, and strategic partnerships in the defence sector.
The CDS engaged extensively with global defence industry leaders, conducting strategic discussions with executives from major aerospace companies including Saab AB, Airbus, Israel Aerospace Industries, BAE Systems, Dassault Aviation, and Rolls Royce. These interactions centered on indigenous manufacturing, technology transfer, and the development of niche capabilities under India’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
General Chauhan also visited various defence pavilions, engaging with both Indian and foreign defence equipment manufacturers, MSMEs, and startups. He witnessed impressive displays of military aircraft from friendly foreign countries and received comprehensive briefings on the capability and performance parameters, including the F-35 from the USA, MRTT from Germany, A400 from Spain, SU-57 from Russia and H125 from France, underlining India’s commitment to fostering international defence collaboration while strengthening domestic capabilities.
“The Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in defense is now a reality, with strong backing from the armed forces. Our ecosystem—including start-ups, DRDO labs, PSUs, and MSMEs—is innovating and collaborating, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. Aero India serves as a platform for showcasing indigenous capabilities and fostering global partnerships, positioning India as a defense manufacturing hub not just for itself but for the world.”
“Beyond domestic advancements, HAL is eyeing international markets, offering platforms like the ALH Dhruv, Do-228, and the upcoming HTT-40 trainer aircraft to friendly nations.
The company is aligning its products with the specific operational needs of international customers, reinforcing its global aerospace presence.”
Samarthya indigenisation programme
Naval Anti-Ship Missile–Short Range
‘Samarthya’ indigenisation programme showcased India’s indigenous ingenuity in defence manufacturing through 33 major items including 24 of DPSUs, DRDO & Indian Navy and nine successful innovation projects of Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX).
The items included ELECTRO BLOCK of Anti-Aircraft Machine Gun, Electric Mobile Part for submarine, Torsion Bar Suspension of HMV 6×6, Extruded Al alloy for components of LCA MK-I/II, LCH, Indian High temperature alloy (IHTA) Forged, Solution Annealed & Machined Billet, VPX-135 Single Board Computer, Muzzle Bore Sight of Tank T-90, RudraM II MISSILE, Naval Anti-Ship Missile–Short Range, C4ISR System, DIFM R118 Electronic Warfare Systems, Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast Receiver, Next-Generation Electric Ferry, Computerised Pilot Selection System, Counter measures for illegal drones (RF Jammer Guns), 4G/LTE TAC-LAN, Generation of Quantum Secure Keys between two nodes connected directly over 200 Kms) QKD – Armos, Abhed1 Secure Hardware based offline Encryption, Advanced autonomous systems for the armed forces, Attack surface monitoring tool, AI/ Ml Based Analytical and Decision Support Platforms (DeepDarshak), Smart Compressed Breathing Apparatus, Fire Wire for IFDSS, Portable RCS measuring device, Penetrator Assy for 125mm FSAPDS, Pilot Parachute PSU-36 for SU-30MKI, Knock out Engine (KOE) Charge for Konkurs-M missile, Diffusion Technology based Drivers Night Sight for BMP II and 30mm Six Barrel AO-18 Gun for AK630M Naval Gun.
Range of Engagements at Aero India 2025
The 15th edition of Aero India 2025, Asia’s biggest aero show, served as a platform for forging partnerships between Indian and foreign firms, accelerating indigenisation in the global aerospace value chain. The event held between February 10 and 14 in Bengaluru. It featured air displays, static exhibitions, a Defence Ministers’ Conclave, CEOs’ Round-Table, iDEX start-up event, and a large trade fair.
The Defence Ministers’ Conclave, themed ‘BRIDGE – Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement,’ focused on strengthening global defence ties. Bilateral meetings involving India’s top defence officials explored avenues to enhance cooperation with friendly nations. While the CEOs’ Round-Table facilitated discussions between global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Indian PSUs and private companies to boost manufacturing in India. The India Pavilion showcased indigenous defence technologies, supporting the Make-in-India initiative, while start-ups exhibited cutting-edge innovations at the iDEX pavilion.
Aero India 2025 also featured dynamic aerobatic displays, live technology demonstrations and seminars on key aerospace themes.
Key Business Deals signed at Aero India 2025
HAL and Safran Aircraft Engines:
A long-term contract for the supply of turbine forged parts for LEAP engines, aligning with the “Make in India” policy.
- Collins Aerospace and HAL:
An agreement to establish an MRO facility at HAL Accessories complex in Lucknow for LCA aircraft electrical power generation systems.
- GE Aerospace and IAF:
A five-year PBL contract for comprehensive sustainment of T700-GE-701D engines powering AH-64E-I Apache helicopters.
- Godrej & Boyce and ADA:
MoU for flight control actuators for the AMCA program.
- EDGE and AYYAZILIM Sign MoU to Develop Next Generation Unmanned Fighting Vehicles
- EDGE Launches Next-Gen AI-Powered Geospatial Intelligence Platform at IDEX 2025.
- Other notable partnerships:
Collaborations between Indian companies like Bharat Electronics Ltd, Bharat Dynamics Limited, and international players for various defense equipment manufacturing and technology transfer initiatives.
Global Synergies
- India is emerging as a leading voice for the Global South & advocates for a multi-aligned policy approach
- Aero India is an event where nations come together & form bonds beyond boundaries
- Asia’s largest aero show presents an opportunity for nations to jointly explore strengths & capabilities and address strategic & tactical needs
- Aero Space Power is the new frontier of military dominance which acts as strategic deterrence
The Global players in full strength
OEMs / Foreign Investors: Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are companies that manufacture and supply components or systems to be used in larger defence systems. Foreign investors are international companies or financial entities investing in India’s defence.
Defence Manufacturers: Companies or organizations involved in designing, developing, and producing defence-related equipment, weapons, and technology for military use.
Defence Investors: Entities, including financial institutions and private investors, that provide funding for defence-related projects, innovations, and infrastructure development.
Innovators: Individuals or companies developing cutting-edge technologies, solutions, and strategies to address challenges in the defence and aerospace sectors.
Indian Defence Industries: Comprises Indian-based companies that produce and supply defence equipment and services to the Indian armed forces and export to other nations.
MSMEs / Startups: Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises or startups that are involved in the development of innovative defence products, services, or technologies. They play a significant role in the supply chain for larger defence contractors.
Foreign Participants
Fifty-eight foreign OEMs including John Cockerill (Belgium), Airbus (France), Ultra Maritime (USA), GNT (South Korea), Mitsubishi (Japan), Safran (France), Liebherr Aerospace (France), L3Harris Technologies Inc. (USA), Thales (France), Lockheed Martin (USA), Martin Baker (UK) attended the CEO Roundtable. The Indian OEMs included Bharat Forge Ltd, Adani Defence & Aerospace, Mahindra Defence Systems Ltd, Ashok Leyland Defence and Defence Public Sector Undertakings.
In a notable development, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh had unveiled a landmark document on ‘Network Centric Multi Domain Operations’ in the presence of key military leadership. This pivotal document, created by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, outlines the roadmap for preparing the Indian Armed Forces for future warfare, emphasizing decision superiority in an increasingly data-centric environment amidst rapidly evolving military technologies.
