By Vijay Grover
While India sets its sights on becoming a major exporter of defense equipment. This is a key part of the country’s broader strategy to achieve self-reliance in defense production and strengthen its position as a global player in the sector. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh outlined the vision towards Atmanirbharta (self- reliance) in defence at the Curtain Raiser Event in Bengaluru on Sunday evening.
Highlighting that India is actively forging strategic partnerships with other countries to co-produce defense equipment and collaborate on research and development, The Defence Minister said that this will not only enhance India’s production capabilities but also open up new markets for exports. Addressing the Media Rajnath Singh said, “This year we have reached Defence Production of One lacs Twenty-seven thousand crores and next year we look to touching One lac sixty thousand crores. Even on Export we have achieved a record 21000 crores and next year, we look to achieve thirty thousand crores”

Highlighting that the government has implemented several policy reforms to streamline export procedures and provide incentives to domestic manufacturers and is making efforts to create a favorable environment for foreign investment in the defense sector. With Defence ministers of over 30 countries expected to attend the 3-day Business event, India looks to sign several key agreements.
On the sidelines of Aero India a conclave, themed “BRIDGE — Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement,” will bring together defense ministers from across the globe to discuss shared security challenges and opportunities for cooperation. The event highlights India’s strategic importance in Geopolitics.
Another key highlight is that this exclusive forum will provide a platform for global CEOs and Indian industry leaders to discuss strategies for boosting defense manufacturing in India. Highlighting that Indian Defence Production has been steadily rising, defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted that the government has facilitated it, Rajnath Singh proudly said, “ We are producing Light Combat Aircraft and C295 in India and our missile production program has reached new heights “

Aero India 2025 will shine a spotlight on India’s burgeoning aerospace and defense start-up ecosystem, with a dedicated iDEX pavilion showcasing innovative technologies and solutions.
Defence Ministry is also assuring Indian companies support and helping in actively forging strategic partnerships with other countries to co-produce defense equipment and collaborate on research and development.
So, the roar of jet engines will once again fill the skies over Bengaluru from Today as the 15th edition of Aero India, Asia’s premier air show, kicks off at the Yelahanka Air Force Station. This year’s event themed “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities,” promises to be the biggest and most spectacular yet, showcasing the latest advancements in aerospace and defense technology from around the globe.

For those who look forward to the spectacle of the flying machines, the Key Highlights are an opportunity to witness breathtaking aerobatic displays by some of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, including the latest Rafales, F-35s, and Su-57s. While the static display and exhibition areas this year are bigger than ever before. “We have over 931 participants this year, which is more than earlier editions showing the success of Aero India,” said PIB ADG Vijay Kumar in his opening remarks at the Curtain Raiser event.
Aero India 2025 promises to become a must-attend event for those interested in aviation, defense, and technology. Industry professionals, government officials, and delegations from over 90 countries descend at Yelahanka Airforce station.
For aviation enthusiasts, the last two days reserved for the public are a chance to witness the future of Aviation and India’s emergence as a stronger and bigger player in every edition of Aero India.
So, stay tuned to our Show daily as we will be bringing you more detailed coverage of the exhibitors, aircraft, and events that will be on display at Aero India 2025. So, keep an eye on this space for all the latest news and updates.