Airbus Defence and Space in India

Advancing Defence and Space in India

The Airbus Defence and Space comprises of Military Aircraft, Space Systems, and Connected Intelligence. We support India’s military modernisation and in developing the defence manufacturing ecosystem. Airbus is actively supporting India’s military modernisation as well as the nation’s endeavours to develop the defence manufacturing ecosystem.

Make in India: Airbus’ Defence Revolution

Airbus, in partnership with the Tatas, is bringing the C295 programme to India, marking a milestone in defence manufacturing. As part of the Indian Air Force’s Avro replacement, this initiative will establish the first fixed-wing aircraft manufacturing facility in India’s private sector. Supporting the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision, the Final Assembly Line (FAL) will enhance local capabilities. Airbus also offers the advanced A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) to meet the IAF’s strategic needs, reinforcing its role as a reliable partner for India’s armed forces.

Airbus is also strengthening India’s indigenous military-industrial base through technology transfer, joint development, and local production. In collaboration with DRDO, Airbus developed a missile approach warning system for India’s Cheetah and Chetak helicopters and supported the indigenous Airborne Early Warning & Control System.

Airbus and ISRO: A Stellar Collaboration

Airbus, Europe’s leading space company, has a long-standing partnership with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and its commercial arm, Antrix/NewSpace India Ltd. Together, we designed and built communication satellites Eutelsat W2M (2008) and HYLAS-1 (2010) for European customers. ISRO’s PSLV has also launched Airbus’ Earth observation satellites SPOT-6 and SPOT-7, along with three SSTL-built DMC satellites: Carbonite, Telesat, and Novasar.

Airbus products contribute to key communication, navigation, and Earth observation missions, while Connected Intelligence services, like high-resolution imagery, support Indian government agencies. Airbus is also building ISRO’s world-largest compact antenna test range in Bengaluru and is collaborating on the TRISHNA climate satellite with CNES and ISRO. Airbus remains committed to expanding collaborations with India’s Department of Space and private industry.