Reliance Aerostructures, a unit of Anil Ambani-led Reliance Infrastructure, has forged a significant strategic partnership with Dassault Aviation, a leading French aviation company.
A crucial strategic partnership has been established between Reliance Aerostructures Limited and the French company Dassault Aviation, marking a new direction for India's defense and aerospace manufacturing capabilities. Under this partnership, the Falcon 2000 business jet will now be manufactured in India, not only establishing the nation's aeronautics sector on the global map but also giving a new impetus to the 'Make in India' initiative.
This historic agreement paves the way for the construction of premium business jets like the Falcon 2000 through a state-of-the-art assembly line being set up in Nagpur, Maharashtra. This move positions India alongside countries like the USA, France, Canada, and Brazil, leaders in next-generation business jet manufacturing.
Falcon 2000 Assembly Line to be Built in Nagpur
The Falcon 2000 assembly will take place in the MIHAN (Multi-modal International Hub Airport at Nagpur) area of Nagpur, Maharashtra, where a joint venture between Reliance and Dassault is already operational. This cutting-edge manufacturing unit was established in 2017, and its scope is now being expanded with this new announcement.
This Nagpur plant will serve as the final assembly line for the Falcon 2000, representing a major step towards manufacturing fully assembled jets in India and supplying them globally. This will not only increase employment opportunities in the country but also garner global recognition for the domestic aerospace industry.
India to Become First Center of Excellence Outside France
This agreement will establish not only an assembly line but also a Center of Excellence (COE) for the Falcon series in India. This center will also handle assembly programs for advanced jets like the Falcon 6X and Falcon 8X.
This marks the first time Dassault Aviation is establishing a COE for its aircraft outside France. Dassault Aviation's Chairman and CEO, Eric Trappier, described this move as a symbol of the company's long-term partnership with India and its commitment to 'Make in India'.
He stated that this center will train Indian engineers and technicians in world-class technology and help India secure a prominent position in the global aeronautics supply chain.
Made in India Falcon 2000 to Meet Global Demand
The global demand for business jets is steadily increasing. The Falcon 2000 jet manufactured in India will be designed for both domestic and international markets. It is estimated that the first Falcon 2000 made in India could take to the skies by 2028.
Under this project, all processes, including assembly, testing, quality control, and delivery to customers, will be carried out within India at the Nagpur plant. This will be a milestone in expanding India's manufacturing capabilities and moving towards self-reliance.
Anil Ambani's Response
Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani described this agreement as a historic turning point in Reliance's global expansion journey. He stated that this partnership with Dassault Aviation is a significant step towards making India a reliable and leading partner in the global aeronautics supply chain.
According to him, this agreement is not just a business initiative but also an opportunity to showcase India's technological prowess and talent internationally. He also mentioned that Indian engineers, technicians, and supply chain experts will now participate in the manufacturing of world-class aircraft.
New Dimension to Make in India
This partnership is a major contribution towards empowering Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' plan. The manufacture of the Falcon 2000 in India demonstrates that the country is evolving from just an importer of defense equipment to a major hub for high-tech manufacturing.
The Indian government has already prioritized defense and aerospace manufacturing. This project will not only strengthen local industries but also make India a preferred destination for investment and partnerships with foreign companies.
