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- Aero India 2025 has strengthened India’s place among the key players in the world defence and aerospace sector with strong international engagement, establishing technological transfer, defence cooperation, and strategic alliances.
- Agreements signed at Aero India 2025 will not only modernize India’s military but also create jobs, attract foreign investments, and position India as a global defence hub.
- Collaborations with global majors like Safran, Thales, and MBDA reinforce the Make-in-India campaign and will reduce imports and boost indigenous manufacturing.
- With over 50 international military delegations, the event has strengthened India’s defence relations with key allies such as the US, France, Israel, and Russia
On February 10, 2025, the Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Aero India 2025, the 15th iteration of India’s leading international aerospace and defence show, at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru. In support of the country’s long-term objective of Viksit Bharat by 2047, the five-day event gave an insight into India’s air power, state-of-the-art technology breakthroughs, and international defence partnerships. This edition of Aero India was the largest ever, with over 900 exhibitors and delegates from 90 nations taking part. More than 100 top Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and about 30 military ministers attended, significantly enhancing India’s stature in the world’s aerospace and defence industry.
In keeping with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” Aero India 2025, with the theme “Runway to a Billion Opportunities,” highlighted India’s transformation into a strong, capable, secure, and independent defence power. Defence innovation, domestic military production, and strategic alliances with global stakeholders received particular attention. In 2025–2026, MOD predicts that India will produce more than Rs. 1.60 lakh crores worth of defences domestically, with exports reaching Rs. 30,000 crores. This comes as the country’s defence self-sufficiency quickly advanced and it became a significant player in the world arms market.
In addition to showcasing India’s technological prowess through live demonstrations, high-level discussions, and exhibitions, Aero India 2025 offered unmatched chances for policy discussions, business interactions, and strategic alliances that will shape the future of defence and aerospace in India and beyond. Among the well-known guests were:
- Ambassador A. Elizabeth Jones led the U.S. team to Aero India 2025, which included executives from Boeing and Lockheed Martin, two of the leading aerospace companies, as well as Pentagon officials.
- Representatives from Dassault Aviation and Safran, two significant French companies, showcased their cutting-edge aerospace and defence technology.
- Representatives from Rosoboronexport and the Russian Ministry of Defence represented Russia, presenting their latest defence equipment and strategic initiatives.
- Industry leaders from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems also contributed to the event by demonstrating their cutting-edge defence technologies.
- Global defence cooperation was further highlighted by the active participation of important defence firms from the United Kingdom, Germany, and Sweden.
Aero India 2025 has strengthened India’s place among the key players in the world defence and aerospace sector with strong international engagement, establishing technological transfer, defence cooperation, and strategic alliances.
Key Events at Aero India 2025
India’s Defense Deals and Agreements at Aero India 2025
India’s latest defence agreements at Aero India 2025 mark a major step in strengthening domestic production, international collaborations, and national security. The acquisition of Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS) will bolster air defence against low-flying threats, while the purchase of BrahMos missiles will enhance maritime strike capabilities.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s Koraput Division will manufacture RD-33 engines for MiG-29 aircraft, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. High-power radar systems will improve tracking and early warning capabilities. Collaborations with Thales and MBDA (UK) will introduce advanced missile systems, while the Safran-BEL joint venture will manufacture HAMMER precision-guided weapons under the Make-in-India initiative. Additionally, Russia’s proposal to manufacture Su-57 stealth fighter jets in India with full technology transfer could significantly boost India’s aerospace industry.
These agreements not only modernize India’s military but also create jobs, attract foreign investments, and position India as a global defence hub.
Future Prospects of Aero India and Its Impact on India
Each edition of Aero India accelerates domestic defence production, global partnerships, and economic growth. Collaborations with Safran, Thales, and MBDA reinforce the Make-in-India campaign, reducing imports and boosting indigenous manufacturing. Investments in stealth technology, next-generation fighter jets, and military systems will propel India into the global aerospace market.
India aims to increase defence exports from ₹16,000 crores in 2023 to ₹50,000 crores by 2030, leveraging Aero India to secure major contracts and strategic alliances. The event will continue to focus on emerging technologies such as drones and advanced combat systems, strengthening ties with the US, Russia, France, and the UK to gain critical technology and global influence.
By 2035, these investments are projected to surpass ₹1 lakh crore, driving job creation and industrial growth. Aero India is also expected to facilitate commercial aircraft development and space technology advancements, benefiting ISRO and private aerospace firms. By 2030, the event is forecasted to generate defence deals exceeding ₹5 lakh crore, further solidifying India’s role in global aerospace and defence.
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Strategic and Defense Significance of Aero India 2025
Aero India 2025 strengthens India’s military modernization and global defence alliances. It showcases India’s expanding defence industrial capabilities while securing high-value defence contracts aligned with the Make-in-India initiative.
The focus on indigenous fighter jets, helicopters, UAVs, and missile systems supports India’s long-term goal of reducing foreign dependence. Projects like Tejas Mk2 and AMCA will equip the Indian Air Force with advanced indigenous fighter jets, while joint ventures for UAVs and aircraft engines will drive future military advancements.
Amid border tensions and Indo-Pacific security concerns, India is reinforcing air and naval defences. The acquisition of new missile defence systems, submarines, and modern fighter jets under the MRFA pact ensures readiness against evolving threats. Bilateral partnerships with global defence firms position India as a trusted strategic partner in the international defence arena.
Aero India 2025 also plays a key role in defence diplomacy. With over 50 international military delegations, the event has strengthened India’s defence relations with key allies such as the US, France, Israel, and Russia. These collaborations enhance India’s strategic autonomy and influence in global security affairs.
The event’s economic impact is equally significant. By attracting large-scale investments, Aero India fuels industrial expansion and job creation in the Indian aerospace sector. Increased domestic production and technology transfers will boost defence exports, integrating India into global defence supply chains and solidifying its status in international defence markets.
Conclusion
Aero India 2025 marks a pivotal moment for India’s defence and aerospace ambitions. It serves as a platform for technological advancements, strategic partnerships, and global investments. With key defence agreements and a strong commitment to self-reliance, the event enhances military preparedness, economic growth, and industrial innovation.
As India continues its ascent as a leading defence and aerospace power, Aero India remains a cornerstone of its strategic, economic, and technological evolution. More than just a showcase of military strength, the event embodies India’s vision for innovation, self-sufficiency, and global leadership in aerospace and defence.
References:
- https://www.aeroindia.gov.in/
- https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2100966
- https://in.usembassy.gov/enhanced-u-s-india-defense-ties-and-indo-pacific-security-on-display-at-aero-india-2025
- https://www.aeroindia.gov.in/assets/front/11thfebruary.pdf
- https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/4062304/press-release-aero-india-2025-opens
- https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2101170
- https://www.aeroindia.gov.in/assets/front/flying_display.pdf
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rDHjJlIgMQ
Piyush Anand is a Biotechnology Engineering student at Chandigarh University. His primary interest lies in International Affairs, Defence and Strategy. Views expressed at the author’s own.