New Delhi, February 3 — Adani Defence & Aerospace and Italian aerospace firm Leonardo have announced a strategic collaboration to create a helicopter manufacturing ecosystem in India, marking a new phase in bilateral defence cooperation. The partners signed a memorandum of understanding to develop local production, training and support capabilities for rotorcraft within the country.
Antonio Enrico Bartoli, Italy’s ambassador to India, said the agreement reflects a strengthening defence relationship between the two nations. He noted that Leonardo brings advanced helicopter technology to the partnership and expressed hope for deeper industrial ties and reciprocal investment, adding that trade agreements also reinforce shared values and security interests.
Ashish Rajvanshi, CEO of Adani Defence & Aerospace, said the initiative will establish manufacturing on Indian soil as part of the Aatmnirbhar Bharat vision. “We will build a helicopter manufacturing ecosystem in India,” he said, stressing that production will be carried out domestically by Indian workers for India’s future rather than relying on imports.
Jeet Adani, director at Adani Defence & Aerospace, described the partnership as driven by both capability and common purpose. He said the project will combine manufacturing, training and world-class aftercare to boost confidence in India’s helicopter capabilities and contribute to the country’s long-term defence readiness.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh framed the pact within India’s broader industrial and defence policy. He said the MoU brings together two respected industrial players and follows recent diplomatic engagement with EU leaders. Singh noted progress on security and information-sharing arrangements that will enable deeper collaboration and reiterated the government’s aim to cut import dependence while building competitive domestic defence industry capacity.
(This article is based on a syndicated feed and is published as received. The Tribune does not assume responsibility for its accuracy or completeness.)
