Is PM Modi Inaugurating Safran's India Facility and Unveiling Skyroot's First Orbital Rocket?
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Safran's state-of-the-art facility and unveil Skyroot's first orbital rocket, Vikram-I, reflecting India's commitment to becoming a self-reliant aviation and space hub. This marks significant advancements in MRO capabilities and private space enterprises, showcasing the nation's growing influence in the global aerospace sector.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi inaugurates Safran's MRO facility
- Launch of Vikram-I rocket by Skyroot
- Significant job creation in aviation sector
- India's move towards self-reliance in aerospace
- Investment of Rs 1,300 crore in MRO facility
In New Delhi, on November 25, (NationPress) demonstrating India’s remarkable strength in the aviation and space industries, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to inaugurate the Safran Aircraft Engine Services India (SAESI) facility and reveal the inaugural orbital rocket from the indigenous space startup Skyroot this week, as announced by the Prime Minister's Office on Tuesday.
The SAESI facility will be officially opened by PM Modi on November 26.
This facility serves as Safran’s specialized Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) center for LEAP (Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion) engines, which are utilized in the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
The PMO highlighted this as a significant advancement towards achieving Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in the aviation sector.
Furthermore, the facility is not only among the largest global aircraft engine MRO facilities but also marks the first instance of a global engine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) establishing an MRO operation in India.
The cutting-edge facility, developed with a preliminary investment of about Rs 1,300 crore, spans 45,000 sqm within the GMR Aerospace and Industrial Park-SEZ.
Once fully operational by 2035, the SAESI facility is designed to service up to 300 LEAP engines annually and will create employment for over 1,000 skilled technicians and engineers, as per the PMO's statement.
The facility will be equipped with advanced processing technology to provide world-class engine maintenance and repair services.
“Cultivating local capabilities in MRO is expected to minimize foreign exchange expenditures, generate high-value jobs, enhance supply-chain resilience, and elevate India’s status as a global aviation center,” the PMO remarked.
The Indian government is actively engaged in establishing a robust MRO ecosystem to accommodate the industry’s rapid growth.
Essential policy measures by the government—such as the GST reforms in 2024, MRO Guidelines 2021, and the National Civil Aviation Policy 2016—have streamlined operations for MRO providers through the rationalization of tax structures and reduction of royalty obligations.
Additionally, the Prime Minister is anticipated to unveil Skyroot’s inaugural orbital rocket, Vikram-I, and inaugurate Skyroot’s Infinity Campus on November 27 at 11 AM through video conferencing.
“Vikram-I is capable of launching satellites into orbit,” the PMO stated.
The Infinity Campus will be a cutting-edge facility offering approximately 200,000 square feet of workspace dedicated to the design, development, integration, and testing of various launch vehicles, with the ability to construct one orbital rocket each month.
Founded by Pawan Chandana and Bharath Dhaka, both IIT alumni and former ISRO scientists turned entrepreneurs, Skyroot launched its sub-orbital rocket Vikram-S in November 2022.
“The swift rise of private space ventures is a testament to the successful transformative reforms enacted by the government in recent years, reinforcing India’s position as a confident and capable global space power,” the PMO remarked.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize that these advancements in India's aviation and space sectors signify a noteworthy shift towards self-reliance and innovation. The establishment of Safran's facility and the launch of Skyroot's rocket are not merely milestones; they represent a broader vision for India as a formidable player on the global stage, fostering growth and employment while enhancing national security.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Safran's India facility?
Safran's facility is crucial because it enhances India's MRO capabilities, reduces foreign exchange outflows, and creates employment for skilled technicians and engineers, positioning India as a global aviation hub.
What capabilities does the Vikram-I rocket have?
The Vikram-I rocket is designed to launch satellites into orbit, showcasing India's growing capabilities in space technology.
When will the facilities be inaugurated?
The Safran facility will be inaugurated on November 26, and Skyroot's Infinity Campus will be unveiled on November 27 at 11 AM.
Who are the founders of Skyroot?
Skyroot was founded by Pawan Chandana and Bharath Dhaka, both IIT alumni and former ISRO scientists.
How does the Indian government support the aviation sector?
The Indian government has implemented key policies like GST reforms and MRO Guidelines to simplify operations and encourage growth in the aviation sector.
