Key Highlights:
✔ MRO Expansion: Rolls-Royce explores setting up an AE2100 engine MRO facility in India for IAF.
✔ Trade Agreement Boost: Plans align with the India-UK CETA, enhancing bilateral aerospace collaboration.
✔ Strategic Partnership: India seen as a key hub for co-development, supply chain growth, and innovation.
Rolls-Royce Considers India for AE2100 Engine MRO Facility Amid Stronger UK-India Trade Ties
In a strategic move that could bolster India’s defence and aerospace capabilities, British engineering giant Rolls-Royce has announced it is evaluating the establishment of a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India for the AE2100 engines powering the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) transport aircraft fleet.
The development comes as the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) takes effect, paving the way for deeper industrial collaboration. Rolls-Royce sees this as a pivotal opportunity to expand its footprint in India, not just as a market but as a strategic partner in aerospace innovation.
Strengthening Defence Collaboration
Abhishek Singh, Senior Vice President of Defence (India and South-East Asia) at Rolls-Royce, emphasized the company’s commitment to local capability-building. *“With our strong legacy in India, we are keen to enhance in-country MRO capabilities for the AE2100 engines while also scaling up partnerships for the Multi-Role Transport Aircraft (MTA) program,”* he stated.
Singh further highlighted that India is a priority for Rolls-Royce, not only for business growth but also for co-development and supply chain expansion. The company recently revealed plans to double its sourcing from India over the next five years, tapping into the country’s growing expertise in aero-engine manufacturing.
A Win for ‘Make in India’
The proposed MRO facility aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing and greater integration into global aerospace supply chains. Rolls-Royce already has joint ventures with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Force Motors, along with long-standing partnerships with Tata, Godrej & Boyce, and Bharat Forge.
With CETA acting as a catalyst, Rolls-Royce aims to bring more high-tech aerospace expertise to India while nurturing local talent and supplier ecosystems. “This agreement is a launchpad for future growth in both defence and civil aerospace,” Singh added.
As India and the UK strengthen economic ties under the 2035 roadmap, Rolls-Royce’s potential investment could mark a significant leap in India’s aerospace maintenance capabilities, reducing dependency on foreign MROs and boosting operational efficiency for the IAF.
Leave a Reply