Modi, Macron Launch Airbus H125 Helicopter Assembly Unit in Karnataka

Kolar: In a significant boost to India’s aerospace and defence manufacturing sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday inaugurated the final assembly line (FAL) for the ‘Airbus H125’ light helicopter at Vemagal Industrial Area in Kolar district.

The facility has been set up by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) in collaboration with Airbus Helicopters. The leaders launched the unit virtually from Mumbai, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu attended the on-ground event at Vemagal.

Built at an estimated cost of ₹405 crore across 17 acres, the facility marks India’s first private-sector helicopter assembly unit. Officials said the first helicopter is expected to roll out by early 2027, with an annual production capacity of 10 helicopters. Over the next 20 years, nearly 500 helicopters are projected to be assembled at the unit.

The plant will undertake final assembly, integration, testing, and delivery of the single-engine Airbus H125 helicopters. It will also focus on maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, strengthening India’s indigenous defence capabilities and export potential.

Speaking at the event, TASL CEO Sukaran Singh said the company stands ready to meet the requirements of India’s defence forces. The project is also expected to generate skilled employment opportunities locally and promote ancillary industries in avionics, hydraulics, fuel systems and engine components.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the project would attract investments exceeding ₹1,000 crore over time and further reinforce India’s growing stature in defence exports. He noted that the private sector now accounts for nearly 25 per cent of India’s defence production and highlighted the deepening strategic ties between India and France.

Karnataka Industries Minister M.B. Patil termed the project a testament to the state’s industry-friendly ecosystem. He said Karnataka continues to strengthen its position as the country’s aerospace capital, having secured the project amid competition from other states.

The launch of the Airbus H125 assembly line represents a major milestone in India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing and enhanced global partnerships in high-technology sectors.

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