Airbus is showcasing its military products and defence technologies here at Defexpo and their displays demonstrate its capabilities and commitment to ‘kick-start a defence industrial base in the country’.
Airbus is showcasing its fleet of defence products at Stand S46, Hall 07. Visitors to the stand can find scale models of the C295 aircraft which is proven around the world as a tough, reliable and high-performance workhorse with ‘outstanding lifecycle costs and excellent performance’ on short or unpaved runways. Airbus has bid to manufacture the C295 in India together with Tata Advanced Systems. Visitors can also learn about the A330 MRTT, the new generation aerial refueller.
In addition, exhibits of the AS565 MBe Panther, the H145M and the H225M helicopters are on the display. Airbus has offered to build the Panther or the H145M in India under the government’s Strategic Partnership (SP) model for the Naval Utility Helicopters (NUH) programme. The H225M has been offered as part of the Naval Multi Role Helicopter (NMRH) programme. Designed to cater to all the needs of India’s armed forces, these helicopters would be produced in India in partnership with Mahindra Defence.
“Airbus is uniquely placed to participate in the ambitious growth journey of the Indian defence industry and will take it to new heights. Defexpo is a key platform to showcase our commitment to the country’s ever-growing aerospace and defence needs,” stated Anand Stanley, President & Managing Director, Airbus India & South Asia.
Airbus currently works with more than 45 suppliers in India and the annual procurement from them is worth more than $650 million. Airbus’ network of Indian suppliers provides engineering and IT services, aero structures and materials for several of Airbus’ aircraft. Over 7,000 people, including 1,500 engineers, are currently employed across Airbus projects in the country.