Aviation

Embraer’s Vision for India: Boosting Aerospace Manufacturing and Defense Capabilities

Embraer is taking significant steps to expand its business in India, recognizing the country’s potential to develop a strong supply chain and manufacturing support for its aircraft.

The company plans to hold high-level meetings to discuss manufacturing capabilities in areas such as aerostructures, machining, sheet metal, composites, forgings, wire harness, and hardware and software development.

Embraer acknowledges that India already possesses the aerospace engineering expertise required to support these endeavors.

Embraer has proposed its C-390 Millennium to India

India is currently exploring options for a medium-weight military aircraft to serve defense and multi-purpose roles. Embraer has proposed its C-390 Millennium, a popular choice in the defense sector, as a suitable candidate.

India is evaluating the feasibility of inducting the aircraft, with considerations for manufacturing it domestically. Establishing local production would enhance the reliability of the supply chain, particularly in terms of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) and support services.

As the world’s fifth-largest defense power, India’s military, which includes the Army, Navy, and Air Force, has already integrated a range of aircraft into its operations.

“India has a robust aviation and defense industry, and we see strong viability for manufacturers and systems developers in India to be key suppliers to Embraer,” said Roberto Chaves, Executive Vice President of Global Procurement and Supply Chain at Embraer.

“We share a common vision: to elevate the aviation capabilities of both Brazil and India, delivering value to our customers worldwide.”

India is a strategic market for Embraer across all its business segments. The company has a significant presence in the country, with over 44 aircraft in operation, including commercial aviation, executive jets, and defense and security aircraft.

Notably, the Indian government and Air Force operate five Embraer VIP jets and three EMB 145 AEW “Netra” military aircraft.

A key future opportunity for Embraer in India is the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program. Embraer, in partnership with Mahindra, is well-positioned to offer the modern C-390 Millennium transport aircraft.

The partnership between Embraer and Mahindra was announced in February 2024, with plans to establish a comprehensive local supply chain program.

This may include setting up an assembly line for the C-390 in India if the aircraft is selected for the program.

In line with the Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative, Embraer and Mahindra aim to meet long-term support needs and contribute to India’s aerospace and defense growth.

Aviation

India Launches Its Medium-Lift Class Helicopter Program, chooses New Engine

India’s longstanding need for a Medium Helicopter may soon become a reality as the country has fully ramped up its engine development efforts. This new helicopter is set to replace the Russian-built models currently in service and will play a crucial role across various scenarios for the Indian Armed Forces.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) have launched a groundbreaking partnership to develop a state-of-the-art high-power engine named Aravalli.

This new engine will power the upcoming 13-ton Medium Lift Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being designed and developed by HAL.

Named after the majestic Aravalli mountain range in India, the Aravalli engine symbolizes the country’s drive for self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, in critical engine technologies. This cutting-edge engine will be instrumental for the IMRH, a versatile 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces, and the DBMRH, a 12.5-ton naval variant tailored for the Indian Navy.

The IMRH is poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian armed forces over the next decade. With its first flight expected in 3 to 4 years, the IMRH is anticipated to begin induction by 2030, with plans to integrate between 300 to 400 units, and potentially more in the future.

The IMRH is envisioned as a highly versatile multi-role helicopter that will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian military. The DBMRH, designed for naval operations, will also face the challenges of high-altitude environments in regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh—areas of strategic importance due to their proximity to the China border.

In addition to its military applications, the Aravalli engine is projected to enter the civil market, serving roles in offshore operations, utility services, and VVIP transport. The long-term vision includes Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities to further extend the engine’s utility and support the aviation industry.

This collaboration between HAL and SAFHAL builds on their successful history of working together on the Shakti engine, which powers several HAL helicopters, including the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter. The proven success of this partnership lays a strong foundation for the development of the Aravalli engine, setting the stage for a new era in India’s helicopter capabilities.