By Aritra Banerjee
The Aero India 2023 airshow kicked off with a “bang” at the Air Force Station in Yelahanka, showcasing India’s defence and aerospace sector growth. With over 731 registered exhibitors as of January 24th, the event aims to strengthen international relations and emphasise India’s rise as a self-reliant “New India.”
The five-day showcase includes several significant events such as the Defence Minister’s Conclave, CEO Roundtable, Manthan start-up event, Bandhan ceremony, and airshow. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasised the importance of such events for the business ecosystem and available opportunities in the states.
The “Make in India” initiative extends beyond India, focusing on joint partnerships in R&D and production. Aero India 2023 provides a platform for the Indian aviation and defence industry to showcase its products, technologies, and solutions to national decision-makers, including aerial displays by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
India’s defence exports have grown eight times in the past five years, now reaching over 75 countries, solidifying the country’s status as a leading defence exporter. The event offers exhibitors and participants the opportunity to exchange ideas and forge collaborations in the aerospace and defence manufacturing sector.
The Indian government’s efforts to make the country a global hub for the defence sector will be on full display at Aero India 2023, providing a significant opportunity to showcase the country’s strength and potential as a primary defence buyer and exporter. The organisers of the major airshow believe that the key to India’s defence industry partnerships with other nations will be partnerships and joint efforts, transcending the traditional buyer-seller relationship to a co-development and co-production model.
