PIB Summary- 10th February, 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

AERO INDIA 2025

Context

Aero India 2025 is a biennial event that will be held at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru, from February 10-14, 2025.

It provides a platform for industry, research organizations, academia, MSMEs, and startups to collaborate and contribute to India’s aviation sector.

Introduction

• The event is more than just an exhibition; it promotes innovation, international alliances, and technological advancements in the aerospace and defence sectors.
• This year’s theme, ‘The Runway to a Billion Opportunities’, highlights India’s commitment to self-reliance and international collaboration in defence technology.

India’s Transformation in Aerospace and Defence

• Since its beginning in 1996, Aero India has evolved from a small aviation exposition into one of the most significant global defence events.
• Over the years, it has attracted leading defence manufacturers, policymakers, and industry leaders from around the world.
• The 2025 edition aims to exceed past milestones by promoting India’s advancements in defence production and technology.

Participation of Global and Domestic Defence Companies

• 106 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), including 55 foreign OEMs from 19 countries, have confirmed participation.
• Countries represented include Brazil, France, Israel, Japan, Russia, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
• 16 Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) will participate, showcasing India’s public sector strength in defence manufacturing.
• 35 Indian OEMs, including major companies in defence and aerospace, will present cutting-edge innovations.
• The participation of both private and public sector enterprises highlights India’s growing defence ecosystem.

Key Attractions at Aero India 2025

• Showcase of Advanced Fighter Jets: For the first time, two of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, the Russian Su-57 and the American F-35, will be displayed.
• These aircraft provide valuable insights into stealth technology, agility, and advanced warfare capabilities.
• India’s Indigenous Fighter Jet: A model of Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) will be presented, a twin-engine fifth-generation stealth fighter under development with 75% domestic content.

Promoting Start-ups and Innovation

• The event includes ‘Manthan’, a platform dedicated to promoting start-ups and innovation in aerospace and defence.
• The iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) pavilion will showcase pioneering advancements from Indian start-ups.
• The Indian Pavilion will highlight Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, emphasizing home-grown defence solutions.

Conclusion

• Aero India 2025 showcases India’s ambition to become a global leader in defence and aerospace manufacturing.
• The event strengthens India’s position in the international defence market by fostering innovation, technological advancements, and strategic partnerships.
• With a focus on self-reliance and global collaboration, it plays a crucial role in advancing India’s defence production capabilities.