According to a joint statement, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) and Airbus Helicopters have finalized the contract to establish the Final Assembly Line for the single-engine H125 helicopter in India. The contract signing took place during the sidelines of the Farnborough International Airshow 2024.

The Final Assembly Line marks a significant milestone as the first instance of the private sector establishing a helicopter assembly facility in India. This facility will manufacture Airbus' popular H125 helicopter from its civil range, catering to India and neighboring countries.

Airbus Helicopters' decision to produce the H125 in India aligns with initiatives by the Ministry of Civil Aviation aimed at fostering helicopter ecosystems in the country, including schemes for regional connectivity and Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS).

Currently, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) holds a predominant role in helicopter manufacturing with the civilian version of the Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv) already operational.

Bruno Even, Chief Executive Officer of Airbus Helicopters, expressed confidence in the potential of the Indian market for helicopters, emphasizing the strategic importance of producing 'Made in India' H125 helicopters. He highlighted the expected expansion into civil and parapublic sectors such as HEMS, positioning helicopters as crucial for national development.

Sukaran Singh, CEO and Managing Director of Tata Advanced Systems Ltd, welcomed the partnership with Airbus to establish the Final Assembly Line. He noted that TASL's expertise in airborne platforms, combined with the ongoing collaboration with Airbus Group, supports the 'Make in India' initiative and addresses the burgeoning demand in India's helicopter market.

The Final Assembly Line will handle critical tasks including integrating major components, avionics, mission systems, and conducting testing and qualification processes for the helicopters.