In a landmark development set to significantly boost India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities, Reliance Infrastructure and French aviation major Dassault Aviation have announced a partnership to produce Falcon 2000 business jets in Nagpur, Maharashtra. This strategic collaboration marks a historic first, as it will be the inaugural time Dassault manufactures these sophisticated jets outside of its home country, France.
The joint venture underscores a deepening defense and aerospace collaboration between India and France, aligning perfectly with India’s “Make in India” initiative aimed at fostering indigenous production. The facility in Nagpur is poised to become a critical hub for high-end aviation manufacturing, with the first made-in-India jets anticipated to roll out by 2028.
The Falcon 2000, a versatile business jet, is renowned for its performance and operational efficiency. The production in India is expected to cater to both corporate clients seeking advanced executive aircraft and potential military applications, highlighting the jet’s adaptability for diverse roles. This local manufacturing will not only fulfill domestic requirements but also position India as a potential export base for these advanced aircraft, further cementing its ambition to become a global aerospace hub.
This partnership brings a multitude of benefits, extending beyond mere assembly. It promises substantial opportunities for local employment, skill development, and significant technology transfer from Dassault to the Indian workforce. Such an infusion of advanced manufacturing processes and technical know-how is crucial for elevating India’s indigenous aerospace ecosystem.
The decision by Dassault to establish production outside France for such a key product signals a profound trust in India’s industrial capabilities and its growing market potential. It is a testament to the strengthening strategic ties between the two nations, demonstrating a shared vision for collaborative innovation and manufacturing in the high-tech defense and aerospace sectors. The Nagpur facility is set to become a beacon of this evolving partnership, symbolizing a new era for aerospace production in India.