Adani & Leonardo: A New Era in Indian Aerospace

Adani Defence & Aerospace has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Leonardo, a global leader in defence, aerospace, and security, to develop a fully integrated helicopter manufacturing ecosystem in India.

The partnership will focus on addressing the helicopter requirements of the Indian Armed Forces, particularly for Leonardo’s AW169M and AW109 TrekkerM platforms. The collaboration will emphasise indigenisation across manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), and pilot training, strengthening India’s self-reliance in helicopter production.

By combining Leonardo’s design and engineering expertise with Adani Defence’s manufacturing and execution capabilities, the initiative supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision and enhances national defence preparedness. The ecosystem is also expected to create thousands of high-skilled jobs, open opportunities in civil aviation, and integrate India into global helicopter supply chains, positioning the country as a competitive manufacturing hub.

Commenting on the partnership, Adani Defence & Aerospace Director Jeet Adani said the collaboration aims to build a comprehensive ecosystem in India encompassing manufacturing, assembly, training, and world-class support. Leonardo Managing Director Gian Piero Cutillo highlighted India’s rapidly growing helicopter demand, describing the country as a key market for the alliance.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.