The proposed partnership will focus on advanced fuel, fluid and related systems as India seeks to deepen domestic aerospace manufacturing
PRAVASISAMWAD.COM
Indian precision engineering company Hical Technologies has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with French aerospace and defence major Safran Aerosystems to explore setting up a joint venture to manufacture complex systems for the Dassault Rafale programme in India.
The proposed venture will focus on sophisticated equipment, including fuel and fluid systems and related assemblies for Rafale combat aircraft being delivered under India’s Make in India initiative. The Times of India
The agreement marks another step in the expanding industrial partnership between Indian and French aerospace companies, while increasing the role of private Indian manufacturers in the global defence supply chain.
Joel Berkoukchi, CEO of the Fluid & Fuel Systems division at Safran Aerosystems, said the Rafale programme requires a supply chain capable of delivering advanced systems at scale and highlighted Hical’s expanding manufacturing capacity
Hical, based in Bengaluru, has already been selected to work directly with Dassault Aviation on control systems for the Rafale programme. The proposed Safran partnership could allow the company to move further into the manufacture of complex aerospace systems. The Times of India
The development comes as Safran continues to expand its industrial presence in India. The French group has established several partnerships in the country, including programmes with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and Bharat Electronics Ltd. Safran has also been developing maintenance capabilities for the Rafale’s M88 engine in Hyderabad. Safran
The MoU follows a broader push by India to increase domestic production of critical aerospace and defence equipment and reduce dependence on imports. It also comes as Indian manufacturers seek a larger role in international aircraft supply chains.
Hical recently expanded its aerospace manufacturing footprint with a new facility at Devanahalli near Bengaluru, aimed at supporting more sophisticated aerospace and defence programmes. The Times of India
