India’s defense helicopter ambitions advanced with the signing of a strategic partnership between Adani Defence & Aerospace and Leonardo, aimed at creating a domestic manufacturing and sustainment ecosystem to meet future military needs.
Under a newly announced MoU, the two companies plan to develop, produce, and support helicopters within India, initially centered on Leonardo’s AW169M and AW109 TrekkerM models for service with the Indian Armed Forces.
The partnership outlines a step-by-step indigenization plan, covering assembly, maintenance and overhaul, pilot training, and long-term fleet support. In addition to meeting domestic military requirements, localized manufacturing is expected to support civil helicopter demand and contribute to Leonardo’s global supply chain.
Adani Defence said the collaboration complements India’s self-reliance drive, as government projections indicate a requirement for more than 1,000 helicopters across services over the next ten years.
The agreement follows earlier initiatives to deepen helicopter production in India. Boeing and Tata Advanced Systems began producing Apache fuselages in Hyderabad in 2016, and by 2023, the joint venture had delivered hundreds of assemblies for international customers.
India’s state-owned HAL has also expanded indigenous rotorcraft programs, including the procurement of the LCH Prachand and advancements in light utility helicopters. Airbus Helicopters continues to strengthen supplier partnerships for its H125 platform while evaluating additional assembly and support opportunities.
