UK-based Martin-Baker is planning to invest ₹380 crore in Karnataka to establish a manufacturing facility for aircraft ejection seats and related aerospace safety equipment, according to a report by The Business Line. The proposed investment was discussed during a meeting between Karnataka’s Minister for Large and Medium Industries, MB Patil, and senior company representatives, who outlined plans to expand the company’s operations in the state. Martin-Baker has requested 10 acres of land in the fifth phase of the Harohalli Industrial Area for the project. According to the state government, the facility is expected to generate more than 500 highly skilled jobs, further strengthening Karnataka’s position in aerospace and defence manufacturing. The British company is internationally recognised for producing aircraft ejection seats, crashworthy seating systems and advanced aircrew survival equipment used by military operators worldwide. The investment is expected to strengthen India’s domestic aerospace manufacturing capabilities, support the development of maintenance, repair and overhaul activities, and encourage the growth of local suppliers for high-value defence technologies. Martin-Baker already has a significant presence in India’s military aviation sector, with more than 900 of its ejection seats currently installed on aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force and Indian Naval Air Arm. The proposed facility aligns with India’s broader efforts to expand domestic aerospace and defence production through localisation, technology development and supply-chain growth. With the state government indicating that the requested land will be allocated quickly, the project represents another major aerospace investment for Karnataka and is expected to create specialised engineering employment while reinforcing the state’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem.
