The 15th edition of Aero India commenced at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, bringing together industry leaders, government representatives, defence officials, and global aerospace companies for the five-day event. The exhibition aims to highlight advancements in aerospace technology, defence manufacturing, and international collaborations.

The event features airshows, exhibitions, and discussions on defence production and innovation. February 10 to 12 are designated as business days, while February 13 and 14 will be open to the public.

India’s defence sector continues to see increased investment, with the Union Budget 2025-26 allocating Rs 6.81 lakh crore to the Ministry of Defence, including Rs 1.80 lakh crore for capital acquisitions. Seventy-five percent of the modernisation budget is reserved for domestic procurement to strengthen India’s defence industrial base.

The exhibition will showcase aerospace and defence products, including domestically developed systems such as the Astra Missile, New Generation Akash Missile, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle, Unmanned Surface Vessel, and Pinaka Guided Rocket. India’s defence production reached Rs 1.27 lakh crore in the previous fiscal year, with defence exports totaling Rs 21,000 crore. Officials project defence production to exceed Rs 1.60 lakh crore and exports to surpass Rs 30,000 crore by the end of 2025-26.

Aero India 2025 also features discussions on private sector participation in defence manufacturing, with an emphasis on industrial collaboration. Notable projects include the Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Airbus joint venture for C-295 transport aircraft production in Gujarat. The exhibition aims to promote partnerships between domestic and international manufacturers.

The event includes a Defence Ministers’ Conclave, CEOs Roundtable, and industry-focused sessions such as the Manthan iDEX and Samarthya Indigenisation events. Senior government and defence officials, including military chiefs and state representatives, are attending the exhibition.

Aero India 2025 is expected to facilitate new agreements and collaborations in the aerospace and defence sectors, reinforcing India’s position as a key player in global defence manufacturing.