Embraer and Adani Defence & Aerospace have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop, manufacture, and sustain a regional transport aircraft ecosystem in India. The agreement was announced in New Delhi on 27 January 2026 and covers cooperation across aircraft manufacturing, supply chain development, aftermarket services, and pilot training, marking a step toward building domestic capability in regional aviation.
The partnership envisages the establishment of an aircraft assembly line in India, followed by a phased increase in indigenisation to support the country’s Regional Transport Aircraft programme. The companies said the initiative aligns with India’s regional connectivity objectives under the UDAN scheme and broader efforts to expand domestic aerospace manufacturing and sustainment capacity.
The collaboration brings together Embraer’s experience in aircraft design and manufacturing with Adani Defence & Aerospace’s aviation value-chain presence, which includes airport infrastructure, aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul services, and pilot training. The proposed ecosystem is intended to support domestic demand for regional aircraft while generating direct and indirect employment across engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and support services.
“India is a pivotal market for Embraer, and this partnership combines our aerospace expertise with Adani’s strong industrial capabilities and commitment to indigenisation,” said Arjan Meijer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Together, we will evaluate the most viable, advanced and efficient solutions in support of India’s RTA ambitions, and their potential for implementation.”
“Regional aviation is the backbone of economic expansion. With initiatives like UDAN transforming air connectivity across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the need for an indigenous regional aviation ecosystem has become critical,” said Jeet Adani, Director, Adani Defence & Aerospace. “This partnership will also strengthen strategic relations between India and Brazil, bringing complementary capabilities together.”
“We are shaping India’s regional transport aircraft ecosystem, a bold stride toward Aatmanirbhar aviation that bridges urban-rural divides, generates high-skill employment, and elevates India’s position in the global aerospace industry,” said Ashish Rajvanshi, President and Chief Executive Officer of Adani Defence & Aerospace.
Embraer has an established presence in India, with nearly 50 aircraft across 11 types operating in commercial, defence, and business aviation. Aircraft based on Embraer platforms are operated by the Indian Air Force, while regional carrier Star Air operates Embraer E175 and ERJ145 aircraft.
Adani Defence & Aerospace operates across aircraft systems, unmanned platforms, avionics, weapons, and sustainment, and is expanding its maintenance, repair and overhaul and pilot training activities as part of a broader effort to strengthen India’s domestic aviation and aerospace manufacturing base.
