GMR Aero Technic (GAT) and Boeing Defence India Private Limited (BDIPL) have signed a landmark agreement for undertaking Phase-56 Heavy Maintenance Checks for the Indian Navy’s Boeing P-8I maritime patrol aircraft fleet. Under the agreement, GMR Aero Technic will carry out the heavy maintenance checks at its MRO facility located at the GMR Aerospace Park SEZ in Hyderabad. T
he work will include structural upgrades, detailed inspections, painting, and system upgrades in line with Boeing and defence aviation maintenance standards. The partnership marks GMR Aero Technic’s first major engagement in supporting a frontline defence aircraft platform and is expected to strengthen India’s defence Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) ecosystem, a statement said on Thursday.
Speaking on the occasion, Ashok Gopinath, President, GMR Aero Technic, said the agreement significantly deepens the company’s long-standing relationship with Boeing, which already includes successful passenger-to-freighter conversion projects. He said the partnership reflects Boeing’s confidence in GMR Aero Technic’s technical expertise and skilled workforce, while reinforcing the company’s long-term vision of positioning India as a global defence MRO hub. Nikhil Joshi, Managing Director, Boeing Defence India, said supporting mission readiness through strong sustainment partnerships remains central to Boeing’s operations.
He noted that the collaboration with GMR Aero Technic highlights Boeing’s continued commitment to strengthening India’s indigenous aerospace and defence capabilities. He added that Boeing continues to invest in services, sustainment, manufacturing, research and development, and talent development in India to build a resilient and self-reliant aerospace ecosystem.
The Boeing P-8I is a long-range maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft used for antisubmarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. The Indian Navy currently operates 12 P-8I aircraft stationed at INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu and INS Hansa in Goa.
