Airbus Helicopters is set to establish a new production line for the H125 helicopter in India, in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). This facility, which will be the fourth H125 production line globally, is expected to cater to a projected demand of 500 helicopters in India and South Asia over the next 20 years.
Location and Facility Details
The H125’s final assembly line (FAL) in India will be the first private sector civil helicopter assembly line in the country. The exact location for the facility is still under final assessment. Factors influencing the decision include the location’s appeal to employees, suitability for industrial activities, and the surrounding logistics ecosystem. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new facility is anticipated by the end of the year, with initial production set at ten helicopters annually, increasing with demand.
Partnership and Strategic Significance
The partnership between Airbus and TASL was announced in January 2024 during high-level talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron. This agreement aims to advance the Make in India initiative and enhance strategic defence-industrial cooperation. The H125 assembly line is the second final assembly line established in India by Airbus, following a significant ₹21,935-crore project to supply the Indian Air Force with 56 C-295 aircraft.
Production and Supply Chain
The new H125 facility will mirror the production standards of the Marignane site in France, focusing on maintaining high quality and safety standards. TASL will manage major component assemblies, avionics, flight controls, and other critical systems, with Airbus providing support and training. The engine and gearbox will be sourced from France, the main airframe from Germany, and the tail boom from Spain.
Expected Rollout and Capabilities
The first H125 from the Indian facility is projected to roll out in 2026. The helicopter, currently produced only in France, the US, and Brazil, is designed for a variety of roles including commercial transport, law enforcement, emergency medical services, disaster management, offshore operations, and firefighting. With a maximum altitude of 23,000 feet, a range of 630 km, and a top speed of 250 km/h, the H125 is a versatile and capable aircraft.
Impact on the Indian Market and Exports
The introduction of the H125 production line is expected to boost India’s visibility as an exporter in the global helicopter market. According to aviation expert Air Marshal Anil Chopra (retd), with HAL’s current production commitments, the private sector’s involvement is crucial. The H125s produced in India will not only cater to domestic needs but also be sold internationally, enhancing India’s role as a key player in the global aviation sector.
