Aero India 2025 Unveiled in Bengaluru: Defence Minister Labels It as India's Power Showcase
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Synopsis
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, describing it as a significant showcase of India's aerospace capabilities. The event brings together global participation from defence ministers, military chiefs, and manufacturers, marking a monumental occasion for India’s defence sector.
Key Takeaways
- Aero India 2025 is Asia's largest aerospace exhibition.
- The event compares to the Maha Kumbh Mela, emphasizing India's might.
- Participation includes 90 countries and 900 manufacturers.
- Showcases include advanced fighter jets and defence innovations.
- The event aims to strengthen international defence collaborations.
Bengaluru, Feb 10 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh officially opened Asia's largest five-day air show and the 15th installment of the nation's aerospace exhibition, Aero India 2025, in Bengaluru on Monday, drawing global attention.
Making a parallel to the Maha Kumbh Mela happening in Prayagraj, Singh hailed Aero India 2025 as a Maha Kumbh representing India's strength.
During the inauguration, he remarked, “At this moment in India, the Maha Kumbh Mela is occurring, where numerous individuals from both India and abroad are participating in a sacred immersion in Prayagraj.
“I too had the privilege to immerse in Prayagraj. I believe Aero India signifies the dawn of another Maha Kumbh for our nation.”
“On one hand, Prayagraj's Maha Kumbh embodies self-respect, while on the other, this Aero India Maha Kumbh revolves around Anusandhan (research),” he elaborated.
“While Prayagraj's Maha Kumbh focuses on internal empowerment, Aero India emphasizes external fortification. Prayagraj showcases India's rich heritage, while Aero India reveals our military and technological prowess,” he emphasized.
“In Prayagraj, India’s heritage and spirituality take center stage, whereas at Aero India, a Maha Kumbh of parakram (valour) and ayudh (weaponry) unfolds.”
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assertion—‘Vikas bhi aur Virasat bhi’ (development and heritage together)—is particularly relevant now. Such gatherings can only occur in India,” Singh noted.
“This is a pivotal moment not only for myself but for the entire nation. I honor India’s courageous soldiers. We have a rich tradition of Atithi Devo Bhava (The guest is God). In India, we regard our guests as divine. I wish to extend this Atithi Devo Bhava philosophy to all the distinguished guests from around the globe,” he stated.
“Dear friends, Atithi Devo Bhava, a Sanskrit phrase meaning ‘The guest is akin to God,’ reflects the essence of Indian culture, portraying India as a hospitable and welcoming land. I warmly greet all of you to India,” he concluded.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar was also present at the event.
This year's Aero Show spans 42,438 square meters, featuring participation from 30 Defence ministers and 43 military leaders from various nations. A total of 90 countries will be represented at Aero India 2025.
The exhibition will showcase 70 fighter jets, cargo, and trainer aircraft, alongside 30 helicopters performing astounding aerial displays.
Highlights will include Russian and American fighter jets.
Moreover, over 900 manufacturers from around the globe will participate, highlighting advancements in AI, drones, cybersecurity, global aerospace, and emerging technologies.
Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) products will prominently feature in this edition of the exhibition.
The event will also see the involvement of 100 CEOs from various firms and 50 foreign OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), focusing on discussions related to investments, research, joint ventures, and the Defence sector.
There will be seminars covering 10 diverse topics, alongside over 70 aerial displays as part of the air show. The event anticipates an audience of more than 700,000 spectators.
The presence of Russian Su-57 and US F-35 fifth-generation stealth fighters is a major highlight of the show, marking the first time both are showcased together.
For the 15th consecutive time, the US is participating in Aero India, displaying a variety of advanced aircraft, reinforcing the robust and growing Defence and aerospace partnership with India, which is committed to enhancing regional security, stability, and economic growth through diversified trade and strategic investment.
At Aero India 2025, more than two dozen American exhibitors will collaborate with Indian counterparts, seek new business avenues, and showcase innovative solutions in aviation and Defence.
These companies will present advancements in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), fighter aircraft, advanced avionics, and Defence electronics.
