A new agreement between Adani Defence & Aerospace and Leonardo marks a significant step in India’s efforts to build a self-sustaining helicopter manufacturing ecosystem to support future military and security requirements.
Signed under a memorandum of understanding, the partnership will focus on local development, production, and lifecycle support of helicopters in India, with initial attention on the AW169M and AW109 TrekkerM platforms for the Indian Armed Forces.
The companies plan a phased localization strategy, covering aircraft assembly, MRO services, pilot training, and sustainment. Local production is expected to address military needs, support potential civil applications, and integrate Indian facilities into Leonardo’s worldwide supply chain.
Adani Defence said the collaboration supports the objectives of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, as India anticipates demand for over 1,000 helicopters in the next decade.
The initiative adds to broader efforts to expand helicopter manufacturing in India. In 2016, Boeing partnered with Tata Advanced Systems to establish an Apache fuselage line in Hyderabad, which by 2023 had produced hundreds of units for the global AH-64 fleet.
Meanwhile, HAL has progressed with indigenous helicopter programs, including the induction of the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand and development of light utility platforms. Airbus Helicopters has also increased its industrial footprint through supplier partnerships linked to the H125 family, alongside ongoing discussions on future assembly and support activities.
