Category: Aerospace

India to Grant ‘Infrastructure’ Status to Aircraft Manufacturing to Boost Domestic Production

The Indian government is considering granting “infrastructure” status to aircraft manufacturing to reduce imports and enhance domestic production. This initiative would attract foreign partnerships and stimulate investment through financial incentives. Notably, the Airbus-Tata collaboration on C295 aircraft represents a significant step in developing India’s aviation manufacturing capability, aligning with national growth aims.

India Defence Ministry Seeks More Talks with Dassault Over Rafale Deal, Insists on Higher Indian Production, Indigenisation

The Indian Ministry of Defence has raised concerns about the Indian Air Force’s request for acquisition of 114 multi-role fighter aircraft, deeming it incomplete. Focused on self-reliance, the MoD demands most aircraft be made in India with higher indigenous content. Dassault must establish local facilities to secure the deal.

India Stealth Fighter AMCA Advances: Two Panels to Evaluate Bids from Seven Defence Firms for Prototype Development

India’s government is evaluating seven defense firms for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, aiming to develop a homegrown sixth-generation fighter jet. With various industry collaborations, the process will conclude in a month, initiating subsequent contracts. The first prototype is expected to fly in 2029, enhancing India’s air superiority amid regional threats.

HAL Nashik Enters Indigenous Era with LCA Mk1A Production Line, Marking End of Imported Fighter Assembly

India’s HAL facility in Nashik has shifted focus to indigenous military aviation, modernizing to produce the LCA Mk1A and HTT-40 trainers. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh marked a historic milestone with the LCA’s first flight. While production capacity is set to increase, concerns remain over timely delivery and meeting IAF’s fighter requirements.

India Launches Titanium and Superalloy Materials Plant in Lucknow, Strengthening Self-Reliance in Defence and Aerospace Manufacturing

On October 18, 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Titanium and Superalloy Materials Plant in Lucknow as a major step towards India’s technological sovereignty in defence. The facility enhances self-reliance in strategic materials and is expected to boost employment and attract industries, marking a significant advancement in India’s defence capabilities.

Netherlands Joins US Collaborative Combat Aircraft Project, Partners with General Atomics to Strengthen Defence and Drone Capabilities

The Netherlands has joined the US Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, enhancing its air power and defense ties. This partnership aims to develop unmanned aircraft to operate with F-35 jets, responding to security concerns amid Russia’s war in Ukraine and evolving hybrid warfare tactics in Europe.

India to Spend INR 65,400 Crore on Fighter Jet Engines by 2035, Pushes for Indigenous Powerplant Ecosystem

India plans to invest INR 65,400 crore (USD 7.44 billion) in fighter aircraft engines, aiming for self-reliance in aerospace. By 2035, approximately 1,100 engines will be needed, reducing foreign dependence. Collaboration with international firms for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and an emphasis on domestic capabilities will support this initiative.

Embraer, Mahindra Sign Agreement to Offer C-390 to Indian Air Force Cargo Aircraft Need

Embraer Defense & Security and India’s Mahindra Group have signed a Strategic Cooperation Agreement to enhance the C-390 Millennium for the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft program. This partnership aims to localize production and establish India as a regional manufacturing hub, reflecting a commitment to self-reliance and enhancing defense capabilities.

Rajnath Singh Flags Off Maiden Flight of Tejas Mk1A; India Private Aerospace Firms Power Its Supply Chain

India is advancing towards replacing its MiG-21 fleet by launching the Tejas Mk1A, domestically developed Light Combat Aircraft, on October 17, 2025. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted India’s growing self-reliance in defense, targeting increased production and exports while incorporating private industry into the supply chain, enhancing capability and efficiency.

India Army Signs Contract with Thales UK for Light Weight Modular Missile System to Bolster Air Defence

The Indian Army has contracted Thales, UK, for the Light Weight Modular Missile (LMM) System, enhancing air defense capabilities. This advanced, lightweight missile targets aerial threats, including drones, with high accuracy and an operational range exceeding six kilometers, crucial for challenging terrains. The acquisition reflects India’s focus on modernizing military capabilities.

India Reverses Tax Exemption on Missile Parts Amid Probe Into Adani Defence’s Alleged $9 Million Duty Evasion

India has revoked a tax exemption for missile parts, reverting to prior duties on small-range missile components amid an investigation involving Adani Defence, which allegedly evaded USD 9 million in import taxes. This policy shift creates uncertainty in the defense sector, highlighting the government’s need for stricter oversight and clearer regulations.

India DRDO Military Combat Parachute System Successfully Tested for 32,000-Feet Combat Freefall

India’s DRDO has successfully tested the Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) through a jump from 32,000 feet, marking a significant advancement in high-altitude aerial delivery systems. Designed for elite forces, the MCPS ensures operational independence with advanced features, reinforcing India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense technology.