Biggest AeroIndia show all set to kick off today

The biggest edition of AeroIndia - billed as Asia's largest Aerospace show - kicks off on Monday with a focus on generating employment and showcasing India's growing ambitions as an arms exporting nation. The show will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will include a defence ministers conclave that will be attended by 32 foreign ministers.

A unique aspect of this year's show is a focus on generating employment, with several companies earmarking time to meet prospective candidates for high technology jobs in aerospace. Some companies, including Airbus and Thales, have invited prospective candidates to meet senior officials at the show and plan to generate at least a shortlist at the end of the expo.

Defence Ministry officials said that Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹75,000 crore are expected to the inked during the show, which will include investments by defence companies, formations of joint ventures and technology transfer pacts.


The show is being organised in an area of over 35,000 sq meters and will see the participation of 98 friendly foreign nations. More than 800 defence companies will showcase their equipment, with senior officials from several nations expected to participate.

A key event during the show will be a conclave to be attended by defence ministers of 32 countries. Based on the theme of Shared Prosperity Through Enhanced Engagements in Defence (SPEED), it will focus on deepening capacity building and will pitch Indian weapons to the world.