For the first time, India’s private sector is taking a major step towards helicopter manufacturing. Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), in partnership with Airbus, will establish a final assembly line (FAL) to manufacture the H125 helicopter in Vemgal, Karnataka. This project will not only give a new direction to India’s civil aviation industry but also meet the needs of the armed forces. The Indian Army has long sought a lightweight, multi-role helicopter, especially for deployment in the Himalayan heights.
Tata Advanced Systems states that the company will undertake the entire process, from manufacturing to assembly, integration, and final flight testing, in India. The first Made-in-India H125 helicopter is expected to be delivered in early 2027. This helicopter could play a significant role in areas such as emergency medical services, disaster relief, tourism, law enforcement, and passenger transportation.
Jürgen Westermeier, President, Airbus India and South Asia, said, “India is an ideal country for helicopters.” “Make in India” helicopters will significantly contribute to nation-building and open up new markets in South Asia.” Sukaran Singh, MD and CEO of Tata Advanced Systems, said, “Tata is the first private Indian company to manufacture helicopters. This is a matter of pride for us and will bolster both the country’s civil and defence needs.”
India’s self-reliance initiative will take new heights.
The H125M, the military version of the H125 helicopter, will also be manufactured in India, incorporating high-quality indigenous components. It is considered an ideal successor to the older Cheetah and Chetak helicopters. This project will elevate India’s self-reliance initiative and position the Indian aviation sector as a major global force.
Tata Advanced Systems intends to manufacture and test the H125 helicopters, including assembling the structural, mechanical, and electrical systems and components into a complete helicopter. This process involves integrating, testing, and performing the necessary final flight tests before delivering the helicopter to customers. The H125 FAL is the second Airbus aircraft assembly plant built in India by Tata Advanced Systems, following the C295 military aircraft manufacturing plant in Vadodara, Gujarat.
