This article is based on an official press release from Leonardo.

Adani Defence and Leonardo Forge Strategic Partnership to Build Indian Helicopters Ecosystem

Adani Defence & Aerospace and Leonardo S.p.A. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a comprehensive helicopter manufacturing ecosystem in India. Announced on February 3, 2026, the collaboration aims to address the Indian Armed Forces’ requirement for over 1,000 rotorcraft in the coming decade while positioning India as an export hub for specific helicopter models.

According to the joint announcement, the partnership will focus on the local assembly and eventual Manufacturing of Leonardo’s AW169M and AW109 TrekkerM helicopters. The initiative aligns with the Indian government’s “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) policies, marking a significant expansion of private sector capabilities in the country’s aerospace domain.

Scope of the Collaboration

The agreement outlines a phased approach to indigenization. Initially, the companies plan to set up a final assembly line, which will evolve into a fully integrated manufacturing facility. Beyond production, the ecosystem will include MRO services and pilot Training centers.

In the official press release, the companies stated that the facility would serve both the domestic defense and civil markets, as well as export customers. The Partnerships leverages Adani Defence’s existing industrial infrastructure and Leonardo’s global aerospace technology.

“By partnering with Leonardo, we are not just addressing the immediate needs of the Indian Armed Forces but also positioning India as a global hub for helicopter manufacturing. This collaboration is a step towards creating a sovereign manufacturing base for rotorcraft in India.”

, Ashish Rajvanshi, CEO of Adani Defence & Aerospace

Targeted Platforms: AW169M and AW109 TrekkerM

The collaboration specifically targets two classes of helicopters designed to fill operational gaps in the Indian military’s fleet.

AW109 TrekkerM

The AW109 TrekkerM is a light twin-engine helicopter in the 3-tonne class. Distinguished by its skid landing gear, it is optimized for utility, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation roles. Its twin-engine configuration offers a safety advantage for over-water missions, making it a potential candidate for naval and coast guard utility requirements.

AW169M

The AW169M belongs to the intermediate light-medium category (4.5–4.8 tonne class). It is a modern twin-engine platform equipped with advanced digital avionics. The aircraft is designed for a wide range of military and public service missions, including troop transport and casualty evacuation.

“This partnership represents a significant milestone in our commitment to India. We are excited to bring our advanced technology and expertise to support India’s vision of becoming a self-reliant power in the defense sector.”

, Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters

AirPro News Analysis

This partnership marks a pivotal moment for Leonardo (formerly Finmeccanica) in the Indian market. Following the lifting of a government ban in November 2021, this is the Italian aerospace giant’s first major strategic move to re-establish a manufacturing foothold in India. By partnering with Adani, a conglomerate with a rapidly expanding defense portfolio, Leonardo effectively navigates the “Make in India” regulatory landscape.

From a market perspective, the introduction of the AW109 and AW169M challenges the monopoly traditionally held by the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The AW109 TrekkerM competes directly in the light utility segment, where the Russian Ka-226T deal has faced prolonged delays. Furthermore, the twin-engine safety profile of these helicopters may appeal strongly to the Indian Navy, which has a long-standing requirement for 111 Naval Utility Helicopters (NUH).

Strategic Implications

The project aims to develop a local supply chain, moving from assembly to the manufacturing of critical components within India. According to the press release, this “phased indigenization” is critical for ensuring long-term sustainability and reducing dependency on foreign imports for maintenance and spares.

Adani Defence has previously established similar partnerships, such as its UAV manufacturing facility in Hyderabad. While the specific location for the new helicopter plant was not explicitly named in the initial release, the company’s existing aerospace park in Hyderabad remains a logical candidate for such an expansion.

Sources

Sources: Leonardo Press Release