By A Correspondent

Mumbai: Indian aerospace firm Max Aerospace & Aviation Limited is setting up an INR. 8,000 crore (~US$930 million) helicopter manufacturing facility in Nagpur, aiming to serve both the military and civilian sectors.

The company signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Maharashtra government in Mumbai in the presence of the state’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Industries Minister Uday Samant on June 13, 2025.

“This isn’t just an investment in Nagpur — it’s an investment in India‘s defence autonomy,” said Fadnavis. He added that the project fits squarely into the national push for ‘Make in India‘ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat‘ in defence manufacturing.

The facility will be a Centre of Excellence for helicopter customisation, integration, and flight testing. Located near Nagpur airport, the site was strategically chosen for its logistical advantages and supply chain connectivity.

The project is expected to generate 2,000 direct jobs. Max Aerospace chief executive officer Bharat Malkani said the construction is slated to begin by mid-2026. The company is also in talks with global Original Equipment Manufacturers and expects to finalise partnerships soon.

Maharashtra Industries Secretary P. Anbalagan and Malkani signed the MoU, with senior officials from Max Aerospace and MIDC present.

Max Aerospace chief financial officer Kirit Mehta noted that this marks one of the largest private investments in India’s rotary-wing ecosystem — a move that could reshape the country’s capabilities in both commercial aviation and defence.

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