New Delhi: Bangalore is all set to host the ninth edition of Aero India, a biennial air show, scheduled to be held on February 6 to 10. More than 53 civil and military aircraft from leading manufacturers across the globe are expected to participate in the event.
Aerobatic teams from India, Russia and the Czeh Republic will take part in the show, which will be inaugurated by Defence Minister AK Antony. Flying Bulls team from the Czech Republic, the Russian Knights team comprising Su-27 combat aircraft and the Sarang team of the Indian Air Force will take part in the event.
"I hope it will be a bigger show compared to earlier editions. We are getting support from various stakeholders. I hope it will turn out to be very good show," Defence Production Secretary RK Mathur told reporters here on Monday.
Mathur said China had been invited but has not confirmed its participation. He said 53 aircraft would be flying at the event and more participants were expected. As many as 63 aircraft had participated in 2011.
Mathur said the French Rafale and American F-16 fighter aircraft would participate in the show. "The show has its own merits for development of defence industry in the country," Mathur said.
He said leading engineering colleges from the country would display designs of their students at the aero show. He said the aero show provides an ideal window of opportunity to companies to not only network with Indian industries but also benefit from the sharing of expertise in research and development and product support with other global players.
Mathur said business due to Aero India shows had led "to offsets of Rs 19,000 crore". He said business opportunities of Rs 14,000 crore have already been generated for the private sector. Since 2006, all defence deals above Rs 300 crore require vendors to reinvest 30 percent in India's defence industry.
The Aero Show will be spread over 125,000 sq m compared to the previous Aero India, which was spread over 75,000 sq m. Against 47 overseas delegations in 2011, there will be 78 foreign delegations this year. The largest overseas participation is expected from the US, followed by Israel and Russia.
Aero India is a biennial air show held at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bangalore and aims to bring under one roof exhibitors from around the globe to showcase the best in aviation. The show is organized by Department of Defence Production.
India is projected to become the third largest defence spender after the United States and China. The total defence capital budget in 12th Five Year Plan is estimated to be Rs 4,45,500 crore with capital acquisition budget ranging up to 85 percent on average.
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