A groundbreaking development in India’s private aerospace sector is underway: the nation’s very first private helicopter final assembly line is being established in Vemagal, located in Karnataka’s Kolar district.
This cutting-edge facility, a venture by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), is dedicated to manufacturing the renowned Airbus H125 helicopters.
Designed for Challenging Terrains, Including the Himalayas
Both Airbus and TASL emphasize that the ‘Made in India’ H125 helicopter will play a crucial role in expanding new markets across civil and para-public segments. Crucially, it will also address the Indian armed forces’ demand for a versatile, light multi-role helicopter, particularly vital for operations in the challenging, icy altitudes of the country’s Himalayan borders.
The collaborative plan includes the introduction of a military variant, the H125M, which will also be produced at this Indian factory. This military model will boast a high degree of indigenous components and technological integration, further strengthening India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Anticipation is high for the first ‘Made in India’ H125, with deliveries slated to begin in early 2027. Furthermore, these helicopters will also be available for export throughout the South Asian region, marking India’s growing presence in the global aerospace market.
Jürgen Westermeier, President and Managing Director of Airbus India and South Asia, expressed enthusiasm for the project: “India offers an ideal environment for helicopter operations. Producing a ‘Made in India’ helicopter will undoubtedly stimulate market growth and establish helicopters as an indispensable asset for national development. We are delighted to forge this new chapter in our enduring partnership with our trusted allies, Tata.”
A Second Major Manufacturing Hub
This H125 final assembly line represents Airbus’s second aircraft manufacturing facility with Tata Advanced Systems in India. The first is the successful C295 military aircraft production plant located in Vadodara, highlighting the depth of their strategic collaboration.
Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Tata Advanced Systems Limited, voiced his pride: “Tata Advanced Systems is honored to be the pioneer private sector entity in India to undertake helicopter manufacturing. This initiative will significantly bolster both our civil and defense capabilities. As our second assembly line in partnership with Airbus, it further solidifies the strong collaboration between Tata and Airbus for India’s strategic goals. Tata Advanced Systems is strategically positioned within the Indian aerospace sector, possessing the expertise to construct and deliver both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters to meet the nation’s diverse requirements.”