Adani Defence & Aerospace announces Strategic Partnership with Embraer Forge to boost India’s Regional Transport Aircraft Ecosystem

NEW DELHI : Adani Defence & Aerospace (ADA), the aerospace and defence arm of the Adani Group, and Embraer, Brazil’s leading aerospace manufacturer, today announced a strategic partnership to establish and strengthen India’s regional transport aircraft ecosystem. The collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the Ministry of Civil Aviation in New Delhi, marking a major milestone in India’s civil aviation manufacturing ambitions and furthering the country’s drive toward self-reliance in aerospace.

The partnership aims to develop an integrated regional aircraft manufacturing ecosystem in India, covering key areas such as aircraft assembly, supply chain development, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), aftermarket services, and pilot training. This initiative aligns with India’s strategic goals under the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” campaigns and supports the national objective of enhancing regional air connectivity — particularly to Tier-II and Tier-III cities.

Key highlights of the collaboration include:

Final Assembly Line (FAL): Establishment of Embraer’s regional aircraft final assembly line in India — the country’s first facility of its kind for commercial aircraft — with phased indigenisation of parts, systems, and components.

Technology Transfer & Skill Development: Progressive technology transfer to develop local manufacturing capabilities, supported by comprehensive training and skilling programs for Indian engineering and technical talent.

Supply Chain Ecosystem: Development of a robust aerospace supply chain within India, promoting local supplier participation and strengthening long-term sustainability of aircraft production.

Support Services: Expansion of support infrastructure including MRO, logistics, and pilot training facilities to ensure long-term operational capability and global competitiveness.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Jeet Adani, Director of Adani Defence & Aerospace, emphasised the strategic significance of the partnership, saying, “Regional aviation is the backbone of economic expansion, and establishing an indigenous aircraft ecosystem is critical to India’s future growth. This collaboration will unlock new opportunities in aerospace manufacturing, create high-value jobs, and support the Government’s vision to strengthen regional connectivity.”

Arjan Meijer, President & CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, noted that “India is a pivotal market for Embraer, and this partnership combines our aerospace expertise with Adani’s industrial strengths and commitment to indigenisation.”

While financial terms and the final location of the assembly facility are still under evaluation, industry observers see substantial long-term potential. India’s aviation market is among the fastest-growing globally, and demand for regional jets — particularly in the 80–150 seat category — is projected to rise significantly over the next two decades.

This strategic alliance is expected to not only enhance India’s civil aviation manufacturing capabilities but also strengthen bilateral aerospace ties between India and Brazil, setting the stage for India to emerge as a competitive player in global aircraft production.