'Kumbh of research': Aero India 2025 kicks off in Bengaluru

The 15th edition of Aero India was inaugrated by defence minister Rajnath Singh at AFS Yelahanka in Bengaluru. He called it the "Kumbh of research," highlighting India's growing defence capabilities and the exhibition’s role in strengthening international ties through technological advancements and collaboration.

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The event was graced by India's Naval Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and Vice Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Sujeet Pushpakar Dharkar. With 26 defence ministers and 118 CEOs, including 59 from global firms, the event will serve as a strategic platform to advance India’s self-reliance vision through high-level meetings and collaborations.
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Rajnath Singh also met South Sudan counterpart Lt Gen Chol Thon J Balok on the sidelines of AERO India 2025. The aviation event will see participation from over 900 exhibitors, including 150 foreign companies, and delegations from 90 countries.

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Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, left, and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi reacting upon landing after taking a sortie aboard a Tejas aircraft ahead of the event, yesterday. (Image credit: PTI)

Indian Air Force's MI-17 helicopters fly past in Dhwaj formation during the inauguration. The first aerial display saw fighter jets like Tejas, Su-30, Jaguar, and Rafale dominating the sky. However, the absence of the Sarang helicopter display team was a notable change this year.

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Indian Air Force's aerobatic team Surya Kiran performing at the event. The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) stole the show, thrilling spectators with their synchronised formations. The five-day event will showcase cutting-edge aerial manoeuvres, demonstrating the capabilities of some of the world’s most advanced fighter jets alongside India’s indigenous aircraft.(Image credit: PTI)

Indian Air Force's Jaguar aircrafts thrilling the audience. What began as a modest air show in 1996 has now evolved into Asia’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition. From its 13th edition, Aero India has expanded beyond air displays to include strategic defence dialogues, reinforcing India’s position as a key player in the global defence sector.(Image credit: AP)

Aviation enthusiasts will also witness a stunning lineup of aircraft, including the Russian Su-57 and the American F-35. Alongside air displays, the event will host crucial strategic meetings. Previous editions featured the Indian Ocean Region defence ministers’ conclave and bilateral discussions.

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Indian Air Force's AN-32 flanked by DO-228 planes flying past in Drona formation during the inauguration. A dedicated India Pavilion will be featuring 275 exhibits across five zones, highlighting advancements in aerospace, naval aviation, and niche defence technologies.

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The ministry of defence designated 2025 as the ‘Year of Reforms.’ India has achieved significant milestones in defence production, manufacturing advanced weaponry such as the Astra Missile, New Generation Akash Missile, Autonomous Underwater Vehicles, Unmanned Surface Vessels, and the Pinaka Guided Rocket, further solidifying its defence capabilities.

(Image credit: PTI)