Airbus Helicopters has awarded Mahindra Aerostructures a contract to manufacture the main fuselage assembly of its H130 helicopter, marking a significant advancement for India's aerospace manufacturing sector. The agreement was signed in the presence of key dignitaries, including Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Honourable Minister of Civil Aviation and senior officials from both Airbus and the Mahindra Group.
Under the contract, Mahindra will produce the H130's main fuselage assembly at its Indian facility, which will then be shipped to Airbus Helicopters' operations in Europe. Industrialisation of the project is set to begin immediately, with the first cabin assembly expected for delivery by March 2027.
This partnership deepens Airbus' engagement with India's growing aerospace ecosystem, with the company highlighting India's strength in offering competitive manufacturing capabilities and skilled talent. The collaboration with Mahindra reinforces Airbus' strategic plan to build a comprehensive aerospace framework in India encompassing assembly, manufacturing, engineering, digital innovation and training.
Mahindra already manufactures parts and sub-assemblies for Airbus' commercial aircraft programmes. The new contract represents a significant step forward in the company's move towards producing larger and more complex aerostructures.
India continues to play an increasingly strategic role for Airbus, not only as a key market but also as a global sourcing base. Presently, Airbus procures components and services worth US$1.4 billion annually from India. This initiative is part of a broader effort that includes the construction of two new final assembly lines in India—one for the C295 military aircraft and another for the H125 helicopter—cementing India's position in the global aerospace supply chain.
