Aero India 2025: US and Russian Jets Unite, HAL Unveils HJT-36 ‘Yashas’

Aero India 2025: Latest News and Highlights from Bengaluru Air Show

The Aero India event, a prominent biennial aerospace and defense exhibition, is currently taking place in Bengaluru. Organized by the Defence Exhibition Organisation under the Ministry of Defence, Aero India serves as a key platform for showcasing innovations in aviation and defense, as well as for enhancing collaboration among global aero vendors and the Indian Air Force (IAF). Spectators are treated to exhilarating aerobatic displays by various aircraft throughout the event.

Key Updates from Aero India 2025

1. February 10, 2025:

   • The US Pavilion was inaugurated by Jorgan K Andrews, the Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy in India. He emphasized the US commitment to strengthening defense and security cooperation with India and the importance of deepening bilateral defense trade.

2. Certificates for Aircraft Systems:

   • Union Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, presented Restricted Military Type Certificates (RMTC) for the ASTRA Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile and the HTT-40 aircraft. He also released crucial guidance materials for the life extension of aircraft systems during the Aero India International Seminar.

3. Inaugural Ceremony:

   • Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the India Pavilion and highlighted the rapidly evolving nature of warfare. He urged collaboration among CEOs of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to leverage the expanding Indian defense ecosystem.

4. Aerobatic Displays:

   • The event commenced with stunning aerial performances by IAF aircraft at the Yelahanka Air Force Station, captivating the audience with their remarkable maneuvers.

5. Advancements in Defense Technology:

   • The Indian Navy is transitioning towards becoming a "Builder’s Navy," highlighted by a vision document that outlines technological advancements for naval aviation. The navy displayed various aircraft models as part of the event.

6. Participation of Foreign Companies:

   • Aero India 2025 features participation from over 150 foreign companies, with representatives from approximately 30 countries present at the event.

7. Technological Showcases:

   • The event includes advanced displays from major aerospace companies, with the presence of cutting-edge fighter aircraft such as the US Lockheed Martin F-35 and Russia’s Sukhoi-SU-57.

8. Exhibits from Indian Manufacturers:

   • Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is showcasing its latest defense technologies, including advancements in communication systems and electronic devices critical for defense operations.

9. Representation of Women in Aviation:

   • Women pilots from the Indian Air Force performed the "Shakti" formation, marking a significant step towards promoting gender equality within the service.
10. Future Potential:
    • The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) has made its debut at the event with a full-scale model on display, expected to bolster India’s defense capabilities by 2035.

As Aero India 2025 progresses, it continues to serve as a pivotal event in the global aerospace and defense landscape, fostering collaboration and showcasing India’s advancements in the field.