• From LCA Tejas to Hypersonic Missiles: India Showcases Defence Advancements at Aero India

 By Sangeeta Saxena

Bangalore. 09 February 2025. Defence Minister of India Rajnath Singh projected a significant increase in India’s defence production and exports. “Having surpassed a record ₹1.27 lakh crore in defence production, we are confident that this will exceed ₹1.60 lakh crore by 2025-26. Similarly, defence exports, which reached ₹21,000 crore, are expected to cross ₹30,000 crore, strengthening India’s position as a global defence exporter,” he noted while speaking to the media at the Aero India press conference in Bengaluru.

As the show is all set to open tomorrow morning and on the eve Rajnath Singh highlighted the event’s role in advancing India’s vision of a strong, secure, and self-reliant nation. He emphasized that Aero India serves as a crucial platform for showcasing India’s defence capabilities, fostering global partnerships, and inspiring innovation among the youth.

“Aero India is more than just a defence exhibition; it symbolizes New India’s resilience and technological prowess. It not only strengthens our defence preparedness but also contributes to shaping our future,” he said. Singh reiterated that the event would encourage collaboration with friendly nations, deepen cooperation, and accelerate shared progress in the aerospace and defence sectors.

The Minister highlighted the transformation of India’s defence and aerospace sector, stating that the country is now fully capable of designing and manufacturing advanced platforms and weapons systems domestically. “Today, we are producing the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and C-295 Transport Aircraft within India. We are also committed to developing fifth-generation fighter aircraft indigenously,” he stated. He further mentioned India’s success in developing cutting-edge missile systems such as the Agni, Astra, Pinaka, Hypersonic Missile System, and Akash Air Defence System, reinforcing India’s defence self-sufficiency.

Following the corporatization of the Ordnance Factory Board, newly formed defence production companies have demonstrated exceptional growth. Singh emphasized the role of the private sector in driving India’s defence and aerospace industries forward, making them key contributors to national security.

The Minister reiterated the defence industry’s role in making India an economic superpower. He emphasized that breakthroughs in defence technology not only enhance national security but also drive economic growth, create employment, and foster innovation across industries. “AeroIndia is a crucial platform that drives towards our vision of a strong India, a self-reliant India. Through AeroIndia, we are not just showcasing our defence capabilities, but also strengthening partnerships and collaborations. Our goal here is to enhance collaboration in areas of common interest between our friendly countries, fostering deeper cooperation and shared progress,” he stated.

“ I am delighted to share with you that today India’s aerospace industry is advancing at a rapid pace. Under the visionary leadership of our Honourable Prime Minister, we have galvanised the entire defence sector, especially the aerospace sector, like never before. Today, we are not only capable of designing and developing major platforms and equipment within India, but we have also successfully established a vast supply chain within the country,” he added.

Calling Aero India a major driver of economic progress, Singh expressed confidence that this edition would be remembered as a historic milestone in India’s journey to becoming a global leader in the aerospace and defence sectors. He added, “ The participation of the global industrial leaders, alongside numerous Indian firms, will serve as a testament of India’s growing technological progress on the world stage. Friends, as India moves towards becoming an economic superpower, the role of the defence industrial sector is becoming even more crucial. Every achievement in the defence sector not only stimulates our national security, but also has a large-scale impact on the economy.”

Informing that the technologies developed for defence often go beyond just military use, he said , “ they frequently lead to innovations in the civilian area as well. These advancements contribute to employment generation and accelerate economic development, making the defence sector a key driver of India’s economic growth.”

With over 900 exhibitors, including 150 foreign companies, and spread across 42,000 sq m, Aero India 2024 is set to be the biggest edition to date. The participation of over 90 countries, including 30 defence ministers and representatives, Air Chiefs, and Secretaries from 43 nations, underscores the growing global confidence in India’s aerospace and defence capabilities.

Thanking the state host government the Minister said, “ when an event of this magnitude is organised, it is natural that many individuals and institutions contribute to its success. It is their hard work and dedication that make these events possible. From those managing the event, to those ensuring cleanliness, from the fire brigade teams to the official handling environment clearance, and from our police and security personnel ensuring our safety, to everyone working tirelessly behind the scenes, each one of them plays a crucial role in making AeroIndia a grand success. I also extend my appreciation to the local economy, civil administration, police, and state government municipal body for their efforts. To all of you, I express my heartfelt gratitude for your dedication and commitment in making this event truly remarkable. Finally, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Karnataka, the Ministry of Nations, the organising team, and everyone who has contributed to making AeroIndia 2025 a reality.”

The minister also from the stage thanked the teeming media presence for it’s role in projecting Indian defence advancements to a global audience. “ It is because of our media friends that Aero India is not confined to just a specific region, but shines across different parts of the country and the world. I am confident that with your contributions, this edition of Aero India will receive even greater identity and acceptance. Your role in promoting AeroIndia will not only highlight India’s aerospace and defence growth, but will also strengthen India’s global image on the world stage. As the Defence Minister of India, I encourage all our media friends to play a key role in showcasing India’s progress on the global platform. I am fully confident that this year’s AeroIndia will be remembered as a historic milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in the aerospace and defence sectors.”

The Defence Minister’s press conference on the eve of Aero India witnessed a teeming media presence, reflecting the global significance of the event. Journalists from leading national and international publications, defence analysts and television networks gathered in large numbers to capture key announcements and insights on India’s growing aerospace and defence capabilities. The room buzzed with anticipation as cameras flashed, reporters took notes and correspondents engaged in discussions about India’s advancements in indigenous defence production and global collaborations. The high-profile participation of global defence leaders and industry stakeholders further amplified media interest, making the press conference a crucial precursor to the much-anticipated Aero India event.

Getting ready for the show