Adani and Leonardo Forge Indian Helicopter Partnership

Adani Defence and Aerospace, an Indian integrated private company, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Leonardo to establish a helicopter manufacturing ecosystem in India to prepare for an expected surge in military rotary-wing demand and a drive for self-reliance in helicopter production.

Under the agreement, the companies will lay the groundwork for increased indigenization, pilot training facilities, and the establishment of a robust maintenance, repair, and overhaul capability. Although the agreement focuses initially on the military market, it could expand into the commercial sector.

In terms of opportunities, the initial targets are Indian Armed Forces requirements that could be met by Leonardo’s AW169M and AW109 Trekker M helicopters.