Airbus and Thales to showcase their platforms and technology at Aero India 2021 exhibition

Paris-based Thales said in a press release that it would bring AirMaster C, the latest addition to its family of airborne surveillance radars, to the biennial event for the first time.

The company said it will also showcase SYNAPS software defined radios, armaments, small arms, counter-drone measures and STARStreak missile system at the exhibition. Thales will also display target acquisition system TALIOS.

Since its inception in 1996, Bengaluru has been hosting the biennial event.

Airbus said in a press release that it will display scale models of C295 medium transport aircraft and A330 multi-role tanker transport aircraft at Aero India 2021.

The aerospace giant mentioned it will also display scale models of H225M multi role helicopter and AS565MBe Panther helicopter.

At the exhibition, a section will be dedicated to highlight Airbus’ strategic local industrial partnerships focused on developing a sustainable aerospace ecosystem in the country.

India is one the largest importers of arms globally. According to estimates, the Indian armed forces are projected to spend around USD 130 billion in capital procurement in the next five years.

However, the government now wants to reduce dependence on imported military platforms and it has decided to support the domestic defence manufacturing.

The defence ministry has already set a goal of a turnover of USD 25 billion (Rs 1.75 lakh crore) in defence manufacturing in the next five years that include an export target of USD 5 billion (Rs 35,000 crore) worth of military hardware.