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S H O W D A I L Y # 2

February 09–13, BangaloreAERO INDIA 2011

Bangalore. India has invited leading international aerospace fi rms to partner

with its strong defence organisations, state-run enterprises and the emerging private sector for the all-round development of its aerospace industry.

“We are open to joint ventures, long-term partnerships and licence production under transfer of technology with leading international aerospace companies to make our aerospace sector strong, competitive and self-reliant,” Defence Minister A.K. Antony said while inaugurating Asia’s biggest air show Aero India 2011 here Feb 9.

“Our latest defence production policy spells out the blueprint of the roadmap that we intend to follow. We are encouraging our public and private sector industries to become active partners in this initiative,” Antony said, declaring open the eighth edition of the biennial event at the Indian Air Force (IAF) base near Yelahanka on the outskirts of this aerospace hub.

Noting that the defence procurement procedure was being fi ne-tuned to make

it transparent and effi cient, the minister told a select gathering of national and international delegations that the scope of the offset policy guidelines has been expanded to civil aerospace, internal security and training to include eligible products and services to enable global fi rms bagging orders to discharge their obligations.

“We hope the revised defence production policy and procurement policy will provide better opportunities to foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and help build indigenous capabilities to undertake outsourcing of products and services for the global aerospace and civil aviation industry,” Antony pointed out. (IANS) ■

India invites aerospace majors for partnerships, outsourcing

Bangalore. India should select the Medium Multi Role Combat

Aircraft (MMRCA) by mid-2011, or latest by September.

Releasing the Aero India special edition of India Strategic defence magazine (www.indiastrategic.in) on the opening day of the Aero India 2011 here, Chief of Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal P V Naik, said that the progress of the evaluation process was going on satisfactorily and that he expected the decision by the middle of this year, or latest by

MRCA decision likely by SeptemberBy Gulshan Luthra

Contd. on pg 3

The technology of yesterday’s dogfights will not win in the modern battlespace. The Super Hornet gives Indiathe advanced capabilities required to prevail for decades to come. It’s the only aircraft available today witha proven, fully integrated suite of networked radar, sensors, avionics and weapons systems—enabling theSuper Hornet to engage potential threats beyond visual range like nothing else. To engage, fight and win.

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Aero India 2011

Bangalore. Versatility, reliability and unmatched performance by CH-47

Chinooks over fi ve decades of service have shown that the tandem-rotor helicopter is a powerful tool in peace and in confl ict.

And, with the introduction of the CH-47F model Chinook in 2008 – complete with new airframes and advanced capability for digital cockpits – the future of the Chinook was solidifi ed for the next several decades. Boeing has entered the CH-47F Chinook into the competition for the Indian Air Force’s new heavy-lift helicopter, with a decision expected in the next several months.

The CH-47F is the U.S. Army’s premier heavy-lift helicopter for intra-theatre troop and cargo transport. It features the latest technologies to ensure continuing military effectiveness, relevance and long-term service for present and future warfi ghters.

But Chinooks are much more than combat helicopters, having proved their mettle repeatedly as a humanitarian asset. Chinooks provided invaluable support in response to humanitarian needs after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and performed essential recovery operations in response to the tsunami disaster in South East Asia. The CH-47F enables operators to maintain their unparalleled capability to support the full spectrum of military and nation-building missions around the globe.

The CH-47F helicopter delivers greater mission-critical capability for the warfi ghter with a newly designed, modernized airframe; a Common Avionics Architecture System cockpit; and a Digital Automatic Flight Control System.

The Chinook is a heavy-lift helicopter that has unsurpassed ability to deliver heavy payloads to high altitudes, and is ideally suited for operations in the high Himalayas. The aircraft has been battle-tested in diverse extreme conditions throughout the world and has proven capability to operate in the wide range of conditions that typify the Indian subcontinent.

The Chinook is capable of handling useful loads up to 24,000 lbs. and a maximum gross weight of up to 54,000 lbs. Its tandem rotor confi guration also provides exceptional handling qualities that enable the CH-47 to operate in climatic, altitude and crosswind conditions that typically keep other helicopters from fl ying.

The tandem-rotor design eliminates the need for a tail rotor, thereby allowing 100 percent of its power to be used for lifting, greater operational agility in a wide range of missions, and a wider center of gravity. Put simply, the tandem rotor design enables operators to carry more, keep lifecycle costs down and perform their missions with greater maneuverability than conventional helicopters.

Modern tandem rotor helicopters now have fully integrated, digital cockpit management systems, long-range fuel tanks and advanced cargo-handling capabilities that compliment their mission performance and handling characteristics. These types of enhancements mean far greater situational awareness for aircrews, improved communications and networking capabilities, and mission management improvements.

The Chinook is Boeing’s longest-running aircraft program in continuous production, built just outside Philadelphia, Pa. The U.S. Army has contracted with Boeing to modernize 464 of its CH-47D Chinooks, a decision that will keep Chinooks in the U.S. Army fl eet at least through the 2030s, an unprecedented 75-year service life.

In addition to the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard, international operators of the CH-47 Chinook include the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Singapore, Thailand, Argentina, Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, Spain, Italy, Canada, Egypt, Morocco, and Greece.

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CH-47F Chinook: Powerful Tool in Peace and Confl ict

August or September.The Indian Air Force had

completed the technical trials and submitted the report on time, and the process of evaluating the Transfer of Technology, Offsets and pricing was moving forward in the Ministry of Defence (MoD) appropriately, and he expected commercial negotiations also to begin very soon.

He did not say if any one or more aircraft had been down-selected or short-listed.

The Air Chief said that the fi rst meeting of the Cost Negotiations Committee should be held in march

A i r Ch i e f Ma r sha l Na i k described the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) as a milestone in developing indigenous aerospace capabilities.

India Strategic’s Aero India edition also quotes DRDO’s Chief Controller and Distinguished Scientist Dr Prahlada as saying that the next step in developing the indigenous capability was the Medium Combat Aircraft (MCA), which should be operational in the next decade. Preliminary design work on this aircraft had already begun.

The edition also quotes Chairman and Managing Director Ashok Nayak of HAL as saying that the current model of LCA, of which the IAF had orderd 40, was “jampacked with avionics, pipelines and wiring” but its Mark II would be longer by a meter with room to “reallocate” systems. “It will have a fresh internal design with more wiring , bus and whatever although it would be a replica of its predecessor in looks.”

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Contd. from pg 1...

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Aero India 2011

Bangalore . F inmeccan ica – through its Operating Companies

AgustaWestland, Alenia Aeronautica, DRS Technologies, SELEX Communications and SELEX Galileo – is taking part in Aero India 2011 in strength, presenting products, platforms and technological solutions.

Finmeccanica’s presence in India dates back to more than 40 years: over this period it has been developed solid industrial partnerships in the defence and security sectors through participation in several successful programmes. For Finmeccanica, India is a country of strategic importance, with a large and sustainable defence market growth.

AgustaWestland will display models of: the AW119, the AW139 Coast Guard, the AW139 Utility, the NH90 and the AW101.

India’s aeronautics sector also offers good prospects for Alenia Aeronautica, which is currently promoting its own solutions. The C-27J tactical transport aircraft produced by Alenia Aeronautica presents special features (multi-functionality and take-off and landing capability on short and semi-prepared runways) which make it a particularly good match for the requirements of the Indian Air Force. The C-27J is capable of performing many missions, such as transport of troops, goods and medicines, MEDEVAC, airdrop operations, paratrooper’ launches, search and rescue (SAR), logistical re-supply, humanitarian assistance and support in homeland security activities. Alenia Aeronautica has achieved remarkable success with the ATR, the regional aircraft produced by a joint venture between Alenia Aeronautica and EADS: Through the Eurofighter consortium, Alenia Aeronautica is taking part in the MMRCA (Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft) programme for the supply of 126 combat aircraft to the Indian Air Force in which the Eurofi ghter Typhoon is competing, with

EADS Germany leading the campaign.The Eurofi ghter Typhoon is a supersonic

twin-engine multi-role aircraft for air defence, interdiction and air superiority, and with a production agreement for more than 700 aircraft, is Europe’s largest military aircraft programme.

Alenia Aeronautica also intends to promote in India the M-346 aircraft (produced by Alenia Aermacchi, a company controlled by Alenia Aeronautica) recently purchased by the Italian and Singaporean governments and selected by the UAE Government. This aircraft is the most Advanced/Lead-In Fighter Trainer optimized for the role and can be proposed in both the operational variant for Air Defence and Ground Attack roles. The M-346 offers very high levels of performance and manoeuvrability for the best cost-effective solutions.

Exhibiting at Aero India 2011 will be DRS’ Tactical Systems Group, a leading designer and manufacturer of ultra-rugged, commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS)-based computers, laptops, workstations, displays, handheld devices and integrated peripheral products for military and industrial markets. On display will be JV-5 Rugged Vehicle and Display System, ScorpionTM RBM notebook computer and Rugged Vehicle Terminal (RVT) as well as DRS’ Military Rugged Tablet (MRT) Computer. Also on display will be X10gx Rugged Tablet PC and X7 Rugged Tablet PC from its line of ARMOR™ brand rugged computing systems. The ARMOR™ brand is based on over 25 years of experience developing computer and display systems that can survive in the harshest environments. DRS Tactical Systems has a strong legacy in military computing and a rich heritage in industrial tablet computing: this combination has resulted in a unique competitive advantage for its customers.

DRS Technologies will display: the JV5, the MRT, the BMDT, the VUDT, the ARMOR

X10, the AROMOR X7. SELEX Communications is present in

India since last 20 years providing avionics, tactical and naval communications systems directly to end-customers or through leading local companies, such as HAL and BEL. At Aero India 2011, the company is showcasing its wide range of products and capabilities in the ground tactical and avionics sectors.

SELEX Communications will display: the SDR (Software Defi ned Radio) in both the vehicular and the handheld versions; the Guardian; the LOAM (Laser Obstacle Avoidance & Monitoring); the M424 IFF (Identifi cation Friend or Foe) Transponder; the ANV-353; the AS-3000; the CM117; the ADS-B Airborne Receiver.

SELEX Galileo has a strong and growing presence in India, and offers world-leading technologies suited to the country’s current and future needs. India already operates some of SELEX Galileo’s systems such as the Mirach 100/5 target drone, and the company is actively performing trials with Indian customers showing its latest surveillance and situational awareness solutions with Indian customers.

SELEX Galileo is able to offer to India the most up-to-date AESA radar, such as the Raven ES-05, and Infrared Search and Track (IRST) sensor Skyward G, which will be integrated into Saab’s Gripen Next Generation fi ghter aircraft. The company is also working on the CAPTOR-E next generation AESA radar for the Eurofi ghter Typhoon, which is being proposed to India as part of the Typhoon programme. Other offerings include cutting-edge Electronic Warfare (EW) systems such as the battle-proven HIDAS defensive aid suite for helicopters, products that significantly boost the situational awareness of troops such as the Hostile Artillery Locating (HALO) system and the Future Soldier range of technology for dismounted soldiers. ■

Finmeccanica at Aero India 2011A global partner for the Indian aerospace, defence and security industry

Any MISSION

Any PLACE

Any TIME

Aero India 2011

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Aero India 2011

Bangalore. A spectacular flying display and breathtaking aerobatics

in formations by Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots marked the launch of Asia’s biggest air show Aero India-2011 here on a sunny Wednesday.

India’s indigenous and world’s smallest light-weight combat aircraft (LCA) Tejas in an arrow formation and aerobatics was the star attraction at the inaugural event for the fi ghter’s agility and maneuverability.

After the transport aircraft AN-32 fl anked by two Dornier fl ew past the runway in a small boy formation, nine Surya Kiran sub-sonic trainers took off for various formations and aerobatics, belching a trail of smoke in Indian tri colours.

Even as the select gathering waited for the return of Surya Kirans to perform dazzl ing feats, including rollovers and signature tunes, the indigenous Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT) of the state-run defence behemoth Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) fl ew over, followed by fi ve Jaguars in arrow formation and three Sukhoi fi ghters in trident (‘Trishul’) formation.

Among the choppers were the HAL’s light combat helicopter (LCH) and its flagship product advanced light helicopter (ALH), which flew in formation as a Sarang team.

The awesome f ly ing and aerobatic display of the medium mul t i - ro le combat a i rcraf t (MMRCA) by fi ve of the six global aerospace majors - which are in race for the IAF’s multi-billion dollar order for 126 metal birds - held the audience spellbound and kept them gazing at the sky despite a beating sun.

Dazzling fl y-past, daring aerobatics mark Aero India launch

The fourth generation supersonic fi ghters that displayed their air prowess are European consortium EADS’ Eurofighter Typhoon, US majors Boeing’s F/A-18 and Lockheed Martin’s F-16s, Swedish SAAB’s Gripen and Dasault’s Rafale.

The sixth contender -- Russian MiG-35 -- was conspicuous by its absence.

Hosted by the defence ministry’s

exhibition organisation in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the fi ve-day event has attracted about 40 international delegations and 675 exhibitors.

This number includes 380 from 30 countries and 295 domestic fi rms which will showcase their latest aerospace technologies and products for Indian and international markets.

“The US delegation, led by Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs Andrew J. Shapiro, is the largest with 250 members, including offi cials, chief executives and experts in the fi eld at the aero show,” the offi cial said.

Other major delegations will be from Germany with 35 members and Italy 10.

Eight countries -- Belgium, Britain, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Russia and the US -- have put up dedicated pavilions for their respective aerospace companies and organisations.

About 100 military and civil aircraft, including 47 foreign planes and different helicopters, have landed for static or fl ying display.

The revival of the civil aviation post-recession is evident from its participation, overtaking military aviation 54 percent and the defence sector accounting for the remaining 46 percent.

This year ’s air show wil l outnumber all previous fi gures in terms of participating countries, companies, space and business, with 70 percent increase in gross exhibition area to 75,000 square metres from 44,000 square metres in 2009. (IANS)

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Identifi ed to power the HAL Tejas Mk-II fi ghter jet, investing 20 million

dollars in setting up the repair and overhaul (MRO) facility to cater to the latter’s GEnx-1B engines in collaboration with Air India, signing a 20-year OnPoint solution agreement that covers its GE90 engines and a backlog of more than 250 engines puts GE Aviation in India in an enviable position in both the military and civil aviation fronts. Enthusiastic about the Aero India 2011 and the opportunities it promises to get Nalin Jain, Country Director, GE Aviation spoke exclusively with India Strategic.Q. Apart from powering LCA for

both IAF and IN what else has GE Aviation to offer to the Government of India?

A. GE Aviation is the world’s leading producer of large and small engines for commercial, military, business and general aircraft, as well as aviation systems like avionics, electric power and mechanical systems. We also supply engines for marine applications and have an extensive global service network to support our product portfolio. As you can see GE Aviation is well placed to support the Government of India needs on multiple fronts as India continues to modernize its defence forces.

Q. Is GE Aviation also producing components of avionics, electrical power and mechanical systems for India?

A. With its legacy as a world-class leader in the industry, GE is making the future of military air and land procedures safer, stronger and more dynamic than ever before. GE’s solutions cover Integrated Avionics and Mechanical Systems, plus Electrical Power Systems. GE Aviation Systems has presence in India on platforms including the Hawk Mk 132, SEPECAT Jaguar (Shamsher), C130J and HJT-36 Sitara.

Q. Is there an R&D facility GE Aviation

GE Aviation matching step with Indian aviation programmehas in India for its engines and other components?

A. To tap India’s scientifi c & technology capability, GE has one of the largest research facilities in India located in Bangalore (one out of 4 in the world) – John F. Welch Technology Center (JFWTC), which employs over 4,000 advanced researchers who work with global teams to develop advanced technology products. There are over 470 researchers working for GE Aviation on diverse mechanical, aerospace & electrical engineering expertise in the fi elds of stress, thermal, impact, CFD, fracture mechanics, acoustics, forming, reliability and electro-magnetism. These researchers have been working on products that GE has been developing for the next generation of Aircrafts: GEnx engine for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, GE90 engine for the Boeing 777 and GP7200 for A380.

Q. What are the latest contracts you have for general and business aviation market, both globally and India specifi cally?

A. GE Aviation is making great strides in the general and business aviation sector. Since GE offi cially formed its 2008 General and Business Aviation division, the company has acquired Walter Engines, a turboprop engine manufacturer in the Czech Republic, and launched development of a new turboprop engine - the H80. The GE Honda Engine, the HF120 engine, continues certification testing and is fl ight testing on the HondaJet. In October 2010, Bombardier selected the TechX engine to power its Global 7000/8000 aircraft. So the business is growing and GE anticipates more growth in the future. Specifi cally in India, there are multiple operators of the Bombardier Challenger – 600, 800 series business jets which are powered by GE CF-34 engines.

Q. GE Aviation also has a large share

of the marine engine requirement. Have you an existing market in the Indian shipyards for both commercial and naval ships’ requirement?

A. GE entered into a Manufacturing License Technical Assistance Agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in 1986 for the LM2500 Marine Gas Turbine to support the propulsion requirements at local shipyards, and has supported HAL in the establishment of a dedicated test cell for the assembly, inspection and testing for LM2500s in Bangalore. HAL has already supplied seven LM2500 Marine Gas Turbines to Mazagon Docks and in 2005 won an order for supplying four LM2500 Gas Turbines to Cochin Shipyard. These LM2500 GT propulsion modules, provided to the shipyards by HAL are for the Indian Navy’s P-17 Stealth Frigates program (6 modules) and for the P-71 Indigenous Aircraft Carrier Program (4 modules).

Q. What has GE to offer from its product line covering most commercial airframes, to the Indian commercial aviation market?

A. GE Aviation’s Commercial Engine presence in India began in 1982 when the state domestic carrier ordered the A300B4 aircraft with the GE CF6-50 engines, followed by orders by state international carrier for the A310 powered by GE’s CF6-80C2 engines. 2006 was a great year for GE Aviation in India. The state carriers ordered 111 aircraft – all GE and CFM powered. To add to this the biggest private airline also ordered Boeing 737, 777 and 787 aircrafts to increase their capacity. As India’s aviation space expands at a rapid pace, private carries continues to look upon GE to provide engines for their existing and new fl eet acquisitions.

Q. Do you have a repair and overhaul hub in India for your engines?

A. GE Aviation continues to provide

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Aero India 2011OnPoint solution agreements for maintenance, repair and overhaul of GE engines and is working with AirIndia to set up a local Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility to support major engine types (GE90, GEnx and CFM56 families). This arrangement is designed to enable the state carrier to become a player in the jet engine maintenance fi eld. Further CFM has established a training school in the city of Hyderabad to provide localized engine training solutions to its airline customers in the region.

Q. Where do you plan to have the customer support and training centre for LCA engineers?

A. I would not like to comment on it.Q. Are your engines environmental

friendly and are they using green fuel?

A. GE’s “ecomagination” initiative is GE’s commitment to develop new, cost-effective technologies that enhance customers’ environmental and

operating performance. The GEnx engine powering the Boeing 787 and the 747-8 and the GE90-115 engine powering the Boeing 777 are some of our aviation products from the ecomagination portfolio which help airlines achieve their goal of becoming environmentally sustainable while helping them reduce their fuel bills. GE continues to be at the forefront of biofuels testing and is committed to supporting the development of sustainable biofuel sources. Our engines have proven to run well on biofuel blends during various testing.

Q. Is there a plan to upgrade old engines to the greener versions for customers?

A. GE continues to infuse new technologies and upgrade its engines. But these upgrades provide only incremental improvements (1%-3%) in fuel burn and emissions. The cost benefit to upgrade an older engine to get a step change in fuel burn and emissions does not make economic sense. Instead, we

go for brand new designs like the GEnx engine that is in development is expected to replace GE’s CF6 engine that currently powers wide body applications. The next-generation of GE engine will provide 15 percent more fuel effi ciency, which translates to lower emissions.

Q. What are the plans for propagating your products in the Indian helicopters, land vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) market?

A. As a leading supplier of integrated systems and technologies for combat aircraft, military transport, helicopters, land vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), GE is enabling armed forces around the world to improve reliability and enhance operational performance. India presents an exciting opportunity and we will continue to work with our customers to providing cutting edge solutions.

As told to Sangeeta Saxena ■

Bangalore. Defence PSU BEML Limited has ventured into Aerospace

Manufacturing sector in a big way. After grabbing a big pie of the fast emerging Metro Rail Coach manufacturing market in the country, the mini-Ratna Company has ambitious plans to take the lead in the booming aerospace sector in the country. Inaugurating the Aerospace Manufacturing Facility at the Mysore Complex of BEML Ltd. today, the Defence MinisterAK Antony called upon the management and the employees to take full advantage of the Defence Offset Policy.

“Get ready to deliver more quality products, assure deliveries on time and I can assure you the government will give you all support,” Antony said.

The new facility will manufacture gears for helicopters including the Light Combat Helicopter, jigs for aircraft structures, machining of aerospace components, fabrication of structural sub-assemblies

for Su-30 fi ghter jets and an array of Ground Support and Ground Handling Equipment.

“In fact, aerospace is not an entirely new area for us,” BEML Chairman-cum-Managing Director VRS Natarajan later said, adding, “We are already making various Ground Support Equipment such

as the Aircraft Towing Tractor, Multipurpose Weapon Loader and Crash Fire Tender.”

“It will eventually undertake manufacture of complex Gears and Gear Boxes for helicopters and aero engines, landing gears for aircraft and upgrades of aircraft and choppers,” he said.

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BEML FORAYS INTO AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING IN A BIG WAY

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Aero India 2011

Boeing India president says India’s unprecedented passenger growth has helped Indian Carriers b o u n c e b a c k w i t h operating profi ts.

Bangalore. Boeing announced that Air India will receive the

delivery of the fi rst Boeing 787 in the 4th quarter of 2011. This announcement was made at the Aero India show and follows Boeing’s January announcement of the fi rst delivery to Air Nippon Airways in the 3rd quarter of 2011.

“India’s expanding aviation industry is among the fastest growing in the world and Boeing will continue its efforts to closely partner Indian carriers in optimizing their growth and competitive advantage.” said Boeing India president Dinesh Keskar, optimistic of India’s aviation growth. “The 787 is a game changer and will give our customers an advantage.” Keskar also mentioned that 15% growth in passenger traffi c and established operating profits across all Indian air carriers indicates a perfect equilibrium of capacity and demand. He said air travel in India, tied closely to the country’s economic growth, has recovered in mid 2010. He cautioned that if fuel prices and infl ation are under control, India’s aviation market will continue to experience strength and resilience.

Boeing’s 20 year outlook of 2010 highlights India’s aviation need of 1150 commercial jets valued at approximately $130 billion. -- a market representing about four percent of Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ worldwide forecast . Keskar said

Boeing optimistic of India’s aviation- announces 787 fi rst delivery to Air India

that this forecast has steadily grown over the last decade due to the unprecedented growth in the Indian economy. India’s economy continues to be the strongest in the world with a growth of 8.5 percent annually over the forecast period.

Global fi rm orders for the Boeing 787 at end of 2010 were 847 airplanes from 57 customers endorsing the value and trust customers have in the airplane.

Boeing, the world’s leading aerospace company and the largest manufacturer of commercial jetliners and military aircraft

combined, has signifi cantly expanded its footprint in India both in the civil aviation and defense market. The Boeing India corporate offi ce is located in Delhi and the company has a Research and Technology center in Bangalore to collaborate with India’s technical talent for research in aero structures, materials and network systems. Boeing is also partnering with India’s leading manufacturers to build a supply chain out of India.

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Aero India 2011

Bangalore. Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, has

strengthened its commitment to India with the appointment of John Gay as Director for Customer Business South Asia, based in New Delhi.

In his new role John will lead the Defence team in India where Rolls-Royce engines have been powering the Indian Armed Forces for 78 years. Prior to taking up his new position in India, John has worked on a number of Rolls-Royce defence programmes with the Indian Air Force (IAF), including the introduction of the new Adour Mk871 engine in the new Hawk Advanced jet trainer and the support of the large range of engines in service with the IAF.

Speaking at Aero India where the Group has a signifi cant presence Anil Shrikhande, President, Rolls-Royce India,

ROLLS-ROYCE STRENGTHENS BUSINESS IN INDIAsaid.

“John’s appointment is a further illustration of the strategic importance of India as a global partner to Rolls-Royce. It will enable us to maximise the signifi cant defence opportunities that exist for us in India and to build on our role as a trusted partner here.”

“2010 was a year of significant achievement for Rolls-Royce in India, with the follow-on order for Adour-powered Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers and the launch of our new joint venture with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. This year we will be accelerating our business development and partnership initiatives as we strive to become embedded in India’s industrial landscape and contribute to India’s defence modernisation priorities.”

John Gay, Rolls-Royce Director for Customer Business South Asia, said: “I’m

very excited about this new challenge and look forward to working closely with our customers in India to ensure that Rolls-Royce is providing the engines and the mission critical support that they require for frontline operations.”

At Aero India 2011 Rolls-Royce will present a powerful array of engine technologies and examples of its expanding partnerships in India. The Rolls-Royce stand (Hall B/31) will feature the Eurojet EJ200 engine, and the CTS800 and M250 helicopter engines. The show will also see the public debut of latest Rolls-Royce engine to enter service with the Indian Armed Forces in the shape of the AE 2100-powered Lockheed Martin C-130J transport aircraft in the colours of the Indian Air Force (IAF). ■

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Aero India 2011

Bangalore. As a prelude to the Indian Aerospace Exposition, Aero India-

2011, a three-day International Seminar on “Aero and Space Technologies – Success through Global Co-operation” was inaugurated by Defence Minister AK Antony at the NIMHANS Convention Centre in Bengaluru.

Speaking on cooperation at every level – local, national or global, being absolutely necessary for progress in technology, Antony dwelled on some of the pitfalls arising out of it. Without minimizing importance of global cooperation in the area of technological development, he described the ‘transfer of technology’ offered by countries as not being fully A-Grade.

“Don’t expect any country in the world, however friendly it is, will part with most modern technology. That’s the reality of the world,” Antony cautioned, referring to the countries offering technology transfer and called upon the DRDO, Industries, Universities and other Scientifi c Institutions

to jointly work together to maximize efforts in technological spheres. He assured of the Government’s unstinted support on the matter.

On the delays in the development of Tejas, unlike in other parts of the world where technology development precedes product development, the two were combined in the case of Tejas due to denial of necessary technologies, Antony stated. Despite odds, DRDO and HAL handed over the aircraft to IAF in a reasonable time-frame, in comparison to other similar class of combat aircraft in the developed world.

After incorporating all improvements that IAF wants, Antony said he expected the Tejas to be made ready by HAL in all aspects including armament, by the next edition of Aero India. Expressing satisfaction on the success of other productions, namely Akash missile system and unmanned aircraft – Nishant, pilotless target aircraft Lakshya and varieties of airborne Early Warning systems, Shri

Antony said there was a lot more to be done to meet the needs of the Armed Forces.

Listing out the challenging roadmap of various aerospace programmes like Advance Medium Combat Aircraft, Aerostats, Unmanned Combat Aircraft, Airborne Early Warning and Control System, Medium Altitude Long Range Unmanned Aircraft, Rustom and the indigenous Gas Turbine Engine – Kaveri, Shri Antony said that it offered opportunities not only for all indigenous institutions and industries, but also for partners around the globe.

Antony expressed his satisfaction on seeing a large number of Engineering College students participating in the seminar, and more importantly included to be seated in the inauguration venue. He asked the organizers to invite students and academia from various Universities in the next edition.

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Cooperation Alright, But Strengthen Home Base To Get The Best: ANTONY

utc.com/indiaTEL: +91 11 40881000

Carrier Hamilton Sundstrand UTC Fire & SecurityOtis Pratt & Whitney Sikorsky

S-76 helicopterS-92 helicopter S-70B helicopter

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Aero India 2011

Bangalore. AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased

to announce that it has sold two more AW139 medium twin helicopters to customers in India. Adani Group has signed a contract for one AW139 to perform VIP/corporate transport missions as well as another corporate customer.

These latest orders bring the total number of AW139s sold in India to almost 20 and continues the success achieved by AgustaWestland’s range of helicopters in the Indian commercial market. The company is proud to have been doing business in India for 40 years and in the last fi ve years over 50 commercial aircraft have been sold comprising AW119Ke

AgustaWestland Signs Contracts for Two More AW139s in India

single engine, AW109 Power and Grand light twin engine and AW139 medium twin engine helicopters.

A new generation medium twin-turbine helicopter setting new standards against which all new medium twins are measured, the AW139 has been designed with inherent multi-role capability and fl exibility of operation, offering unmatched performance and safety levels as well as the largest and the most comfortable cabin in its class. State-of-the-art avionics equipment and outstanding performance enable the AW139 to accomplish its mission in the most demanding conditions. The AW139 has found great success in India, especially for VIP/corporate and

offshore transport purposes. Orders for almost 500 AW139s have been placed by nearly 140 customers from around 50 countries for many applications including VIP/corporate transport, offshore transport, EMS/SAR, law enforcement, fi re fi ghting, utility and other commercial and government roles.

Founded in 1988 the Adani Group is a leader in international trading and infrastructure development. The Group has achieved high growth in several business sectors including power, infrastructure, global trading, logistics and energy.

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Aero India 2011

Bangalore. Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company, has announced the

fi rst delivery of a Bell 429 helicopter to a customer in India. The announcement took place at the biennial Aero India air show where the company has the aircraft on display.

The customer, Span Air, is headquartered in New Delhi and is one of the region’s most prominent air charter operators, offering a mix of jets and Bell helicopters. The addition of the new Bell 429 to Span Air’s fl eet will allow the operator to offer customers superior speed and range, the ability to land in remote areas, along with an expansive and impeccably-appointed cabin.

“In every way, the acquisition of the Bell 429 for operations in India makes excellent business sense,” said Capt. Sudhir Malik, COO, Span Air. “The aircraft’s performance capabilities make it ideal for the challenging operating environment presented by India’s weather and geography. The 429 is also equipped with all the latest safety features and offers the legendary reliability of Bell helicopters, something we have already experienced with our other Bell aircraft.”

The Bell 429, the world’s newest and most advanced light twin-engine helicopter, has been designed, built and certifi ed to the most stringent airworthiness standards.

“The 429 is a highly adaptable helicopter that was designed for very demanding operators looking to address a wide assortment of mission requirements,” said Larry Roberts, Senior Vice President, Commercial Business, Bell Helicopter. “Customers in India will fi nd the 429 to be intelligently-designed, robust, have ample power margins, very fast and more spacious than any other helicopter in its class. Customers here also have access

to the world-renowned Bell Helicopter customer support network.”

India currently has two Bell Helicopter customer service facilities, Air Works India and Deccan Charters, to support the numerous Bell helicopters operating in the country.

Bell Helicopter Delivers First429 Into India

Prior to arriving at Aero India, Span Air’s 429 helicopter c o m p l e t e d a c r o s s - c o u n t r y demons t ra t ion tour that gave key prospective cus tomers the oppor tuni ty to experience the aircraft fi rst hand.

In Asia Pacifi c, the Bell 429 has already found customers in China, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, Philippines, and

New Zealand, in addition to India. Interest in the aircraft has come from private companies, including corporate transportation and utility missions, as well as civil and military government agencies.

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Aero India 2011

DRDOSECURING THE FUTUREDefence Research and Development OrganisationMinistry of Defence, Government of India www.drdo.org

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Aero India 2011

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Aero India 2011

Washington. The United States, as part of a new military strategy, is

seeking “expanded military cooperation with India” and a “positive, cooperative, and comprehensive relationship with China”, the world’s “two rising powers.”

“As military capability and capacity increases in Asia, we will seek new ways to catalyse greater regional security cooperation,” said the revised National Military Strategy calling for redefi ning leadership in a changing world.

The document released here Feb 8 is the fi rst revision since 2004 of the ways and means that the military will advance US national interests.

A senior military offi cial speaking on background said the Asia-Pacifi c will be of greater importance. “There are two rising powers - India and China - and a number of regionally powerful nations,” he said.

There may be a migration of US capabilities in the region. “That may not necessarily mean more troops, but the distribution may change,” he said.

Advocating investing “new attention and resources in Southeast and South Asia” it said, “Leveraging our convening power, we will expand the scope and participation of multilateral exercises across the region.”

“We seek expanded military cooperation with India on non-proliferation, safeguarding the global commons, countering terrorism, and elsewhere,” the revised strategy said.

At the same time the US will also “expand our military security cooperation, exchanges, and exercises with the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Pakistan, Indonesia, Singapore, and other states in Oceania.”

The new strategy said, the US “seeks a positive, cooperative, and comprehensive relationship with China that welcomes it to take on a responsible leadership role.”

“To support this, the Joint Force seeks a deeper military-to-military relationship with China to expand areas of mutual interest and benefi t, improve understanding, reduce misperception,

and prevent miscalculation.”The US, it said, “will promote common

interests through China’s cooperation in countering piracy and proliferation of WMD, and using its infl uence with North Korea to preserve stability on the Korean peninsula.”

At the same time Washington “will continue to monitor carefully China’s military developments and the implications those developments have on the military balance in the Taiwan Strait.

The revised strategy document also said that the US remained “concerned about the extent and strategic intent of China’s military modernisation, and its assertiveness in space, cyberspace, in the Yellow Sea, East China Sea, and South China Sea.”

“Our military power is most effective when employed in support and in concert with other elements of power as part of whole-of-nation approaches to foreign policy,” Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, wrote in the strategy. (IANS)

US seeks expanded military ties with India, ChinaBy Arun Kumar

Bangalore. Samtel Display Systems Ltd. and Thales Avionics SA are proud

to announce the offi cial incorporation of their new Joint Venture company, Samtel Thales Avionics Ltd.

“This is a key step for Thales in India and its ambitious development plan, actively encouraged by the Indian Defence Ministry,” said Yves Joannic, Vice President in charge of Thales Avionics Helicopter activities and one of the Directors of the new company. ”This joint venture with a national industry partner makes Samtel Thales Avionics Ltd. a very credible

player for future programmes.”Puneet Kaura, Executive Director, Samtel

Display Systems said: “Incorporation of

Samtel Thales Avionics JV is offi cially incorporatedSamtel Thales Avionics is an important step in our strategy to cater to the existing and future opportunities in the Indian Defence space. The coming together of Thales’s proven technologies and Samtel’s Indian experience is sure to create positive synergies that will strengthen the industry.”

The JV company Samtel Thales Avionics Ltd, offi cially incorporated as of December 28, 2010, is intended to locally develop, customize, manufacture, sell and maintain indigenous Helmet-Mounted Sight and Display Systems and modern Avionics Systems for the Indian and export defence markets.

The core objective of the JV company

is to design systems for the Indian Forces’ helicopters and fi ghters. However, the activity will quickly expand to include other products. Based in Delhi, it will provide the foundation for all future Thales aerospace development in India. The resulting Indian avionics systems will serve customer requirements as part of overall Thales and Samtel solutions. These systems will also be eligible to help Thales meet offset obligations for its different programmes with the Indian Defence Ministry. The JV company will ensure local added value support and integrated maintenance services for the systems it produces for the Indian market.

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Aero India 2011

Aero India 2011

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