Defense Minister Rajnath calls for an enhancement in military capabilities

Aero India 2025 Kicks Off in Bengaluru, Showcasing India's Industrial Capability and Strengthening International Ties

The 15th edition of Aero India, Asia's largest aerospace and defence exhibition, has commenced at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the event, emphasising its significance in further strengthening symbiotic relations with friendly countries.

The theme for Aero India 2025 is "The Runway To A Billion Opportunities," reflecting the government's vision for the defence sector as a motor powering the growth engine of the Indian economy.

Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh led the first sortie of Aero India 2025 in the combat aircraft Tejas, symbolising India's indigenous defence capabilities. The event aims to showcase India's industrial capability and technological advancements to the world.

During the exhibition, global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) were called upon by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to leverage opportunities in the expanding Indian defence ecosystem and develop specific solutions to address current volatile geopolitical challenges. Major international aerospace and defence companies such as Boeing, Rheinmetall, Jenoptik, and Turkish firm Aselsan, among others involved in the Indian defence supply chain and assembly sectors, were present.

The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the Indian Air Force displayed various formations using BAE Systems Hawk Mk 132 aircraft. The Shakti formation by women pilots in the Rafale demonstrated the increasing role of women in the Indian Air Force. Other notable maneuvers included the Varun formation by the Indian Navy, the arrow formation by the Jaguar aircraft, and the Trishul formation by three Sukhoi aircraft.

The SKAT drew a tricolor and a heart pierced by the cupid's arrow during their performance, adding a touch of patriotism to the event.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the accomplishments achieved from the last Aero India, including the manufacturing of high-tech products like Astra Missile, New Generation Akash Missile, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle, Unmanned Surface Vessel, and Pinaka Guided Rocket within the country.

Aero India 2025 brings together various stakeholders from all over the world, including government representatives, industry leaders, air force officers, scientists, defence sector experts, start-ups, academia, etc. The event is intended to provide a platform to further strengthen relations among like-minded countries.