Tata Advanced Systems Launches India's First Private Helicopter Assembly Line

Tata Advanced Systems Limited has partnered with Airbus to set up India's first helicopter Final Assembly Line in the private sector. Located in Vemagal, Karnataka, the assembly line will manufacture the Airbus H125 helicopter, a project poised to tap into the burgeoning rotorcraft market in South Asia.

This 'Made in India' H125 will cater to both civil markets and military needs, specifically for light multi-role helicopters required in the Himalayan regions. The joint venture plans to produce a military variant, the H125M, from this facility, integrating advanced indigenised components and technologies, with the first helicopter expected to be delivered by early 2027. It will also be available for export across South Asia.

Jurgen Westermeier of Airbus India emphasized India's favorable conditions for helicopter operation and underscored the project's potential for nation-building. Sukaran Singh of Tata Advanced Systems highlighted this as a strategic extension, fortifying capabilities in both the civil and defence sectors. This collaboration follows in the footsteps of Airbus' long-standing relationship with India, starting with the Cheetah and Chetak helicopters produced over sixty years ago. The latest H125 model is celebrated for its versatility and performance, capable of fulfilling diverse roles from rescue missions to law enforcement.

(With inputs from agencies.)