With over 900 exhibitors and representatives of 43 countries taking part in Aero India 2025, it has become one of the biggest stopovers for leading defence manufacturers
Aero India 2025, the highly anticipated biennial aviation exhibition, turned out to be the biggest defence expo in the Global South with more than 900 exhibitors, representing 90 countries, and spread over 42,000 sq km, coming together to showcase the latest developments in the defence aviation sector in Bengaluru over February 10-14. It is estimated that a record seven lakh people visited the event ground over the four days.
According to information released by the Ministry of Defence, the presence of air chiefs and secretaries from 43 countries underscored the importance of India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities. Latest figures released by the Ministry indicate that Indian defence manufacturing has crossed Rs 1.27 lakh crore, including exports worth Rs 21,000 crore, in value terms in FY 2023-24 and is on target to increase to Rs 1.60 lakh crore by the end of 2024-25.
A notable focus of the event was the emphasis on indigenous innovations and the Make in India initiatives. The government’s commitment to self-reliance was evident in the numerous projects and prototypes on display. From advanced avionics to next-generation engines, Indian companies showcased their capabilities, underscoring the nation’s dedication to reducing dependence on foreign technology and fostering a robust domestic aerospace industry.
“Aero India 2025, a confluence of critical and frontier technologies, will provide a platform to further strengthen relations among like-minded countries based on mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual benefit to deal with today’s uncertainties,” said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh while inaugurating
the 15th edition of Aero India at the Yelahanka Air Force Station.
On 2025 being declared the ‘Year of Reforms’ in the Ministry of Defence, Singh termed it not just a government slogan, but evidencing the government’s commitment to reform. He said decisions regarding reforms are not being taken only at ministry level, the Armed Forces and DPSUs (Defence Public Sector Undertakings) are also participating in the endeavour. “To take this drive of reforms forward more rapidly, there should be participation of all stakeholders in the defence sector. Suggestions from all stakeholders associated with the ministry are welcome,” he said.
The centrepiece of attraction at this year’s Aero India was the participation of the Russian Su-57 Felon, manufactured by state controlled Rosoboronexport, and the F-35 Lightning II, produced by Lockheed Martin. The participation of the two platforms offered a rare opportunity to India’s defence planners to do a direct side-by-side comparison of the competing platforms. Both manufacturers are keen to service India’s need for fifth generation fighter aircraft.
The Russians are open to India manufacturing the Su 57 under a transfer-of technology agreement. Earlier, the director of Rosoboronexport, Alexander Mikheev, told Sputnik India that Russia and India can jointly manufacture the fifth generation frontline fighter under the Make in India programme. “Our proposals include supply of assembled aircraft, the organisation of their joint production in India, and assistance in developing an Indian fifth generation fighter,” said Mikheev.
For the Indian context, it presented an opportunity for defence equipment manufacturers to showcase the latest products and platforms. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) registered a big presence at the show. Leading DPSUs and private sector defence equipment manufacturers were also present in large numbers. HAL’s major attractions were the LCA Tejas Mk1A fighter, LCA Mk1 Trainer, Combat Air Teaming System (CATS), a fully built-up model of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), Hindustan Turbo Trainer (HTT)-40 Simulator, Hindustan Jet Trainer (HJT)-36, HTT-40, LCH ALH Mk IV and a variety of Unmanned Aerial Systems.
(Main picture) LCA Tejas Mk1 flypast in Vic formation during the inauguration of the 15th edition of Aero India at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, Karnataka. (From top) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh releasing the souvenir at the Defence Ministers’ Conclave; Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh and Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi react on landing after a joint sortie in a Tejas twin-seater; a fully built-up model of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), being developed by HAL, was revealed for the first time at Aero India 2025
(From top) The Fifth generation fighter F-35 Lightning II takes off to perform manoeuvres on the fourth day of Aero India; Russian frontline fighter Su 57 lands after a sortie; IAF’s Surya Kiran aerial acrobatics team performing at Aero India
The DRDO showcased various systems and platforms in different stages of development, while India’s leading DPSU, Bharat Dynamics Limited, displayed its entire range of missiles and autonomous systems. Aero India 2025 also hosted a number of parallel conferences and seminars. These included the Defence Ministers’ Conclave, the CEOs’ Roundtable, the iDEX Startup event, and the Samarthya Indigenisation conference.
This year the theme of the Defence Ministers’ Conclave was BRIDGE — Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement. It encapsulated the dynamic geopolitical conditions and the path to mutual prosperity, which can be bridged through cooperation among nations with a shared vision of security and development.
The air show began with a spectacular flypast in perfect synchronisation. Fighter jets, transport planes, helicopters, and state-of-the-art drones performed an impressive aerial display. Air shows by various participating aircraft were a major draw. The spotlight was on performances of aerial manoeuvres by the Su 57 and F-35. The Indian Air Force’s aerial acrobatics team, Surya Kiran, enthralled visitors with breathtaking performances. In another unique display, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh and Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi conducted a joint sortie in a twin-seater Tejas Mk1. Aero India 2025 was not merely a spectacle of technological marvels. Delegations from around the world converged, engaging in dialogue and bilateral negotiations. Defence ministers, military officials, and corporate leaders engaged in discussions, forging alliances and exploring opportunities for cooperation. The event served as a platform for India to assert its growing influence in the global aerospace and defence sectors, highlighting its potential as a hub for innovation and manufacturing.
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