India, Jan 27 : Global aerospace leader Embraer and Adani Defence & Aerospace on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop an integrated regional transport aircraft (RTA) ecosystem in India, focusing on aircraft manufacturing, supply chain development, aftermarket services, and pilot training.
The collaboration envisions establishing an assembly line in India, followed by phased indigenisation to strengthen the nation’s RTA programme, aligned with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission and the UDAN regional connectivity initiative.
“India is a pivotal market for Embraer, and this partnership combines our aerospace expertise with Adani’s industrial capabilities and commitment to indigenisation,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation. He added that the companies will jointly evaluate advanced and efficient solutions to support India’s RTA ambitions.
The partnership will leverage Embraer’s engineering and aircraft manufacturing experience with Adani’s aviation value-chain, including airport infrastructure, MRO services, aerospace manufacturing, and pilot training.
“Regional aviation is the backbone of economic growth. With initiatives like UDAN expanding connectivity to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, creating an indigenous regional aviation ecosystem is essential,” said Jeet Adani, Director, Adani Defence & Aerospace. He noted that the collaboration also strengthens strategic ties between India and Brazil.
Embraer has a strong presence in India, with nearly 50 aircraft and 11 types operating across commercial, defence, and business aviation sectors. The proposed ecosystem is expected to generate substantial employment in engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and support services while catering to domestic demand.
Ashish Rajvanshi, President and CEO of Adani Defence & Aerospace, said, “We are shaping India’s regional transport aircraft ecosystem, a bold step toward self-reliant aviation that bridges urban rural divides, creates high skill jobs, and enhances India’s global aerospace standing.”
Adani Defence & Aerospace, India’s largest integrated private defence and aerospace company, is advancing indigenous aircraft and UAV manufacturing while building a comprehensive aviation value chain, from MRO and pilot training to avionics, weapons, and sustainment, supporting national security priorities and global standards.