The Indian Air Force (IAF) Yelahanka airbase is set to roar back to life as it prepares to host Aero India 2025, the biennial air show, from February 10 to 14.
Organized by the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with various agencies including the Department of Defence Production, IAF, HAL, DRDO, Department of Space, and the Union Civil Aviation Ministry, Aero India 2025 promises to be a showcase of India's growing aerospace prowess.
This year's event is generating significant buzz due to several key developments. A major highlight will be the intense competition between US aviation giant Boeing (F-16/18) and French counterpart Dassault Aviation (Rafale) for a multi-billion-dollar fighter jet deal with the Indian Air Force. Aero India 2025 will serve as a crucial platform for these negotiations.
Meanwhile, HAL, the manufacturer of the indigenous Tejas fighter jet, is aiming to secure export deals with developing nations in the Middle East, South America, and Southeast Asia. This ambition underscores India's growing confidence in its ability to compete in the global defence market.
This ambition follows HAL's recent success in signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Response Plus Holdings, a UAE-based medical service provider, to export helicopter platforms for emergency services.
Beyond the commercial aspects, Aero India 2025 will feature a spectacular display of aerial capabilities. Visitors can expect thrilling performances by IAF’s Sukhoi fighters, the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team, and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team. A teaser for the event has already been released, further amplifying anticipation.
Aero India has consistently grown in scale and significance. In 2023, the event witnessed 809 exhibitors, including 110 foreign participants. The IAF's Tejas aircraft, a lightweight, highly agile, and multi-role supersonic fighter, was a major highlight of the 2023 edition.
With increased international participation and high-profile deals in the pipeline, Aero India 2025 is poised to be a landmark event for the Indian aerospace and defence industry.
