Image Source: The Hindu Business Line
Rolls-Royce, a global leader in civil aerospace and defense technologies, is set to significantly grow its aerospace capabilities in India following recent strategic agreements and the historic India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This expansion aims to increase local manufacturing, technology development, and supply chain sourcing, reinforcing India’s position as a global aerospace and defence hub.
Key Highlights of Rolls-Royce’s India Expansion
• Doubling Sourcing by 2030: Rolls-Royce plans to at least double its supply chain sourcing from India within the next five years. This aligns with the Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ vision, focusing on manufacturing complex aero engine components domestically for global markets.
• Strengthening Defence Partnerships: With over 750 Rolls-Royce engines powering Indian military aircraft and 650 mtu engines on land and sea platforms, Rolls-Royce is deepening technology co-development initiatives to enhance India’s indigenisation and defence autonomy.
• New Joint Ventures and Collaborations: The company has formed key partnerships, including a major collaboration with Hyderabad-based Azad Engineering to manufacture critical military aircraft engine components, supporting India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
• Expanding Civil Aerospace: Rolls-Royce plays a central role in India’s civil aviation growth with contracts to supply advanced Trent XWB engines alongside Airbus aircraft, backed by the India-UK FTA that reduces tariffs and promotes industrial cooperation.
• Employment and Skill Development: The Indian Rolls-Royce ecosystem currently employs around 3,000 people, including 2,000+ highly skilled engineers, contributing to global engineering projects and technology innovation.
• Technology and Innovation Focus: The company is committed to developing local intellectual property, digital capabilities, and advanced manufacturing processes to support India’s transition from ‘Make in India’ to ‘Design and Develop in India for the World.’
Strategic Importance and Future Outlook
This expansion underscores Rolls-Royce’s confidence in India’s potential as a critical aerospace and defence market. It supports India’s ambitions for self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in high-technology sectors, job creation, and enhanced participation in global supply chains. The strategic collaboration is also expected to advance technology transfer, capability development, and boost India’s competitiveness on the global aerospace stage.
Sources: Rolls-Royce India official site, Republic World
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