If you’ve ever been a kid who looked up at the sky and admired the sound of fighter jets and imagined the sheer power of aviation – Aero India is the air show you should experience once in your lifetime.
Aero India is one of the biggest air shows and aviation exhibitions recently held in India. It is held every two years and is a global hub for aerospace and defence innovation. The theme of Aero India 2025 was ‘The Runway to a Billion Opportunities’.
The theme focused on India’s growth in aerospace and defence manufacturing and on motivating partnerships between international and Indian companies.
Event Details & Information
- The air show was held at the Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bangalore, Karnataka.
- The show ran for 5 days from 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM each day.
Major Participants and Exhibitors at the Aero India 2025
The Aero India Show hosted several events like aerial displays, performances featuring military aircraft, helicopters, drones and exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge aerospace innovations and defence technology. The event was organised by the Defence Exhibition Organisation (Ministry of Defense). The objective behind organising the Aero India 2025 was:
- To showcase cutting-edge technology in the aviation, defence, and aerospace sectors.
- Promote international collaboration and the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
- Provide a platform for new partnerships for both the military and civil aviation sectors.
The show witnessed a large list of participants. Countries including Sweden, Germany, Brazil, the United States of America, and Russia all participated in the event organised in Bangalore.
- United States: The United States of America featured its F-16 Fighting Falcon, known for its speed, agility, & avionics and F-35 also called the backbone of the US Air Force. The F-35 is referred to as one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world.
- Russia: Russia showcased the Sukhoi 57E known for its extreme speed and range. The jet is also equipped with AI-assisted combat systems, sensor fusion, and more.
- Brazil: Brazil was there with its modern military transport aircraft the Embraer C-390 Millennium. The aircraft is specifically designed for higher speed, greater load capacity, and advanced avionics.
- Sweden: Sweden showcased its 4th generation fighter jet JAS 39 Gripen. The multi-role fighter is known for its short runway takeoff and is a great competitor to fighter jets like the F-16, Rafale, and more.
The air show was organised over an area of 42,000 square metres, and around 900 exhibitors and 150 companies from around the globe participated in the 5-day event. Additionally, the leading global defence and aerospace companies including Boeing, Lockheed, Israel Aerospace Industries, General Atomics, Liebherr Group, Raytheon Technologies, Safran, General Authority of Military Industries (GAMI) and more were part of the event. While domestic companies like HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited), BEL (Bharat Electronics Limited), and others were also the key participants.
India's Aerospace and Defense Advancements
India’s aerospace is driven by the motto of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. The Make in India initiative is significantly transforming the sector and has made strides in aerospace & defence, leading to a push for in-house manufacturing. Some of the key highlights include:
In-house Development & Production
BEL (Bharat Electronics Limited) developed the Akashteer System and automatic air defence control and reporting system. Additionally, HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) developed unmanned aerial vehicles in January 2025, the same is expected to be launched later this year.
International Collaborations and Exports
India’s aviation market is predicted to be the world’s third-largest by 2030. India is expected to finalise a deal with the Philippines worth $200 for the export of indigenously developed short-range missile – Akash. Additionally, Russia proposed producing its advanced Su-57 stealth fighter jet in India with full technology transfer.
Bearings in the Aerospace and Defense Industry
Bearings are crucial components of aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace applications. Several types of bearings are used to ensure smooth operation, reduce friction, and enhance efficiency. The bearings equipped in these systems are designed to withstand extreme stress, high operating temperatures, and high loads. Some of the commonly used bearings in the aerospace and defence industry include:
Widely used in engines & control systems.
Bearings designed with advanced materials ensure efficiency, durability, and operation safety in aircraft, military vehicles, and advanced weaponry.
Use of Bearings in the Aerospace and Defense Industry
Engines
Bearings are a crucial part of the aircraft and jet engines. They enable smooth operations, reduce friction, and ensure reliability in extreme conditions. Bearings used in aircraft and jet engines include high-quality ceramic bearings, hybrid bearings, ball bearings, roller bearings, thrust bearings, etc. These bearings are designed to be lightweight but withstand high loads.
Landing Gear
Bearings are an integral part of the landing gear assembly of aircraft and jets. These bearings are designed to absorb high-impact loads during takeoff and landing. Ball bearings, tapered roller bearings, and spherical plain bearings are commonly used in landing gear assemblies.
Spacecrafts & Satellites
Bearings in spacecrafts & satellites are used in rocket engines, thrusters, robotic arms, deployable solar panels, etc. These bearings are designed to function under zero-gravity conditions. Magnetic bearings, self-lubricating bearings, deep groove ball bearings, thin section bearings, spherical air bearings and more are usually fitted in spacecraft and satellite systems.
Weapons & Defense Electronics
Weaponries, precision-guided missiles, drones, and surveillance equipment are all fitted with several types of bearings to perform high-precision tasks. These bearings are designed to ensure stability, precision, and accuracy. Ball bearings, cylindrical roller thrust bearings, and tapered roller bearings are commonly used in weaponry and defence electronics.
Flight Control Systems
Bearings in flight control systems play an unparalleled role by facilitating precise movements of flaps, rudders, elevators, and ailerons and ensuring aerodynamic stability. Bearings used in flight control systems include spherical bearings, needle roller bearings, spherical plain bearings, ball bearings, etc.
Role of Aero India 2025 in Strengthening Global Defense Relations
The Aero India show served to be a platform for global defence and aerospace companies. The event brought together global defence companies, military officials, and government representatives to discuss potential deals. India’s major collaboration with France, the US, and Russia have been strengthened through Aero India discussions. The event positioned India as a major player in global defence relations.
FAQ's
Where was Aero India 2025 organised?
The Aero India 2025 was organised at the Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bangalore, Karnataka.
Who was allowed to visit Aero India?
Indian citizens and foreign nationals were allowed to visit the Aero India show. The tickets were categorised into 3 categories – General, ADVA (Air Display Viewing Area), and Business.
What was the general pass in Aero India?
The general pass at the Aero India show was priced at ₹2500 for Indian citizens and allowed entry to both the exhibition and ADVA (Air Display Viewing Area).
