Embraer and Adani Defence and Aerospace have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop an integrated regional transport aircraft ecosystem in India.

The companies are set to collaborate on opportunities in aircraft manufacturing, supply chain, aftermarket services, and pilot training.

Embraer–Adani strategic partnership

This strategic partnership aims to establish an assembly line and a phased increase in indigenisation to advance India’s Regional Transport Aircraft (RTA) program, in alignment with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and the UDAN regional connectivity vision.

Arjan Meijer, President and CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation, said, “India is a pivotal market for Embraer, and this partnership combines our aerospace expertise with Adani’s strong industrial capabilities and commitment to indigenisation.”

“Together, we will evaluate the most viable, advanced, and efficient solutions in support of India’s RTA ambitions and their potential for implementation.”

Embraer has a long-standing partnership with India, with nearly 50 Embraer aircraft and 11 aircraft types currently across commercial, defence, and business aviation.

The Embraer aircraft, which are also used by the Indian Air Force, consist of the Legacy 600 aircraft and the ‘Netra’ AEW&C aircraft based on the Embraer ERJ145 platform. Star Air operates a fleet of 13 E175 and ERJ145 aircraft.

Details of the deal

This deal is set to advantage Embraer’s engineering and aircraft manufacturing expertise with Adani’s aviation value-chain footprint, which includes airport infrastructure, aerospace manufacturing, MRO services, and pilot training.

Additionally, the deal is mainly focused on supporting domestic demand while generating significant direct and indirect employment across engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and support services.

Jeet Adani, Director, Adani Defence & Aerospace, said, “Regional aviation is the backbone of economic expansion. With initiatives like UDAN transforming air connectivity across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the need for an indigenous regional aviation ecosystem has become critical.”

Adani Defence & Aerospace is one of the largest integrated private defence and aerospace companies in India. This partnership with Embraer will open new doors for the Indian regional transport aircraft ecosystem.

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