Adani Defence & Aerospace, a key part of India's Adani Group, has partnered with Italian aerospace giant Leonardo. The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, to create a helicopter manufacturing system in India. This major step aims to help India produce its own helicopters and reduce its reliance on imports for defense needs.[ndtvprofit+2]
The agreement focuses on meeting the Indian Armed Forces' demand for over 1,000 new helicopters in the coming decade.This includes more than 300 light utility helicopters, over 300 medium-lift helicopters, more than 100 intermediate helicopters, and over 90 maritime multi-role helicopters.[borsaitaliana+2]
Boosting India's Defense Production
This new partnership will build a complete helicopter manufacturing setup in India. It covers design, production, maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO), and pilot training.The main goal is to strengthen India's defense readiness and support the government's "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) initiative.[leonardo+2]
Jeet Adani, Director at Adani Defence & Aerospace, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. "This alliance with Leonardo is a pivotal stride toward a resilient, future-proof helicopter ecosystem in India," he said.He also mentioned that the MoU shows Adani Group's commitment to becoming a major player in India's aviation sector, moving beyond just airport operations to include manufacturing.[m+1]
Specific Helicopter Models Targeted
The collaboration will specifically target Leonardo's advanced AW169M and AW109 TrekkerM helicopters.The AW169M is a modern, multi-role military helicopter designed for tasks like utility, surveillance, and special operations.It has advanced navigation systems, a high carrying capacity, and can operate day and night in all weather conditions.[leonardo+3]
The AW109 TrekkerM is a lighter, highly flexible helicopter known for its speed and agility.It is cost-effective to operate and suitable for reconnaissance, training, medical evacuations, and light transport duties.These helicopters are built for tough military environments and can adapt to various operational roles.The AW169M is primarily for the Indian Navy, while the AW109 TrekkerM is for the Indian Army and Air Force.[business-standard+3]
Strategic Importance for India
Ashish Rajvanshi, CEO of Adani Defence & Aerospace, highlighted the strategic vision behind the partnership. "With the Indian Armed Forces projecting demand for over 1000 helicopters in the coming decade, this partnership realizes our vision for sovereign manufacturing," Rajvanshi stated.He added that it will speed up local production, strengthen supply chains, and establish India as a world-class production hub.[borsaitaliana+1]
The partnership is expected to create thousands of high-skill jobs. These jobs will be in engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and support services.This also aims to establish India as a competitive center for helicopter production.The collaboration could also expand to civil aviation needs and integrate into international supply chains.[leonardo+3]
Leonardo's Return to the Indian Market
This agreement marks a significant return for Leonardo to the Indian defense market. The Italian company, previously known as AgustaWestland, faced a ban from the Indian defense market in 2014 due to a corruption controversy involving the sale of VVIP helicopters.The ban was lifted in 2021, paving the way for new partnerships like this one.[m+1]
The signing of the MoU took place with important government officials present, including Defence Secretary RK Singh and Ministry of Defence's Director General (Acquisition) A Anbarasu.Further supporting local manufacturing, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently removed customs duty on parts needed to make civilian, training, and other aircraft in her Budget speech.This move aims to further encourage domestic aerospace production.[m+2]
The collaboration between Adani Defence & Aerospace and Leonardo is a clear signal of India's growing commitment to becoming self-reliant in critical defense technologies. It also positions India as a potential global hub for advanced helicopter manufacturing and maintenance. This strategic alliance will significantly boost India's aerospace capabilities and create a robust ecosystem for future aviation needs.
