15th Aero India Takes Off in Karnataka, Asia's Biggest Airshow

The 15th edition of Aero India, Asia’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition, commenced today at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru. The five-day biennial event, inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the presence of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, will showcase cutting-edge military aviation technology, with over 900 exhibitors from India and abroad participating.

The first three days of the event are dedicated to business visitors, while the last two days will be open to the general public. The event features a Defence Ministers’ Conclave, a CEOs’ Roundtable, an iDEX start-up event, aerial displays, and an extensive exhibition area, including the India Pavilion and a trade fair of aerospace companies. According to organisers, Aero India 2025 is set to be the largest-ever edition, surpassing the 2023 event, which saw 809 exhibitors and more than seven lakh visitors. The total exhibition space this year spans over 42,000 sq. m., accommodating major defence companies, start-ups, and MSMEs.

Aero India 2025 boasts an impressive lineup of aircraft, with participation from some of the world’s leading defence manufacturers. Notably, the Russian fifth-generation fighter jet Su-57 is making its debut at the event. The US Air Force has also sent its advanced F-35 Lightning II fighter jet, which is making its second appearance at Aero India. However, there is no confirmation yet on whether the F-35 will be part of the flying display. Other key aircraft on display include the US Air Force's KC-135 Stratotanker, the B-1B Lancer strategic bomber, and the Brazilian KC-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft.

The Ministry of Defence pointed out that this is the first time in history that Aero India will see the participation of two of the most advanced fifth-generation fighter aircraft—the Su-57 and the F-35. This event will be a great opportunity for aviation enthusiasts and defence experts to see these cutting-edge warplanes up close.

Apart from international aircraft, the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will showcase indigenous aircraft and helicopters. The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, HJT-36 intermediate jet trainer, Hindustan Turbo Trainer (HTT-40), and Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) will be among the Indian aircraft participating in the event. A key attraction will be the first public display of a full-scale engineering demonstrator of the Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior, developed by HAL. This unmanned combat aerial vehicle is expected to play a significant role in future air warfare. Additionally, a full-scale model of India’s upcoming fifth-generation fighter jet, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), will also be showcased.

Aero India has always been known for its breathtaking aerobatic displays, and this year is no exception. The nine-aircraft Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the Indian Air Force will perform intricate aerial formations. However, the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, a regular at the event for the last two decades, is unlikely to participate due to the grounding of the ALH Dhruv helicopters. Despite this, organisers promise a thrilling air show featuring high-speed maneuvers and acrobatics that will captivate visitors.

The exhibition also serves as a major platform for global defence collaboration, with multiple bilateral meetings, technology agreements, and joint ventures expected to be signed. Aero India has grown beyond being just an air show; it has become a strategic event where countries showcase their defence capabilities and negotiate defence deals. With participation from over 150 foreign companies, the event underscores India’s position as an emerging hub for aerospace manufacturing and innovation.

In the last edition in 2023, Aero India facilitated major defence deals and saw increased participation from private players in India’s growing defence sector. This year, expectations are even higher as India continues to push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The presence of major global defence firms at the exhibition reflects India’s importance in the global arms market and its ambition to become a major exporter of military hardware.

As Aero India 2025 is set to take place over the next five days, it will attract thousands of business delegates, investors, and aviation enthusiasts. The event again cements Bengaluru's status as India's aerospace capital and hosts one of the world's biggest air shows. With the latest fighter jets, aerial shows, and defence deals on the anvil, the exhibition is going to be a landmark in global military aviation.