The Indian Navy is set to make a strong impression at Aero India 2025, scheduled from February 10–14 at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru. Focusing on Indigenous advancements and future technologies, the Navy’s pavilion will spotlight key innovations, including the much-anticipated scaled model of the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) and several cutting-edge projects developed under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
TEDBF Takes the Spotlight
One of the major attractions will be the scaled model of the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF), India’s future 4++ generation carrier-borne fighter aircraft designed by the Aeronautical Design Agency (ADA). Mounted on a ski-jump platform, the display underscores India’s progress in developing advanced naval aviation capabilities. It reinforces its position among a select group of nations capable of designing and manufacturing deck-borne fighters.
Showcasing Indigenous Innovations
The Indian Navy’s pavilion will highlight a range of cutting-edge indigenous technologies and foster partnerships that emphasize innovation and self-reliance. Key exhibits will feature advanced missiles specifically designed for naval operations and Air-Droppable Search and Rescue (SAR) Kits and Logistics Containers (ADC) that enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, Carrier-Borne Systems for the MiG-29K will showcase advancements aimed at boosting operational readiness. A significant highlight will be the Advanced Lightweight Torpedo (ALWT), representing a leap forward in underwater warfare capabilities. The pavilion will also present collaborative projects developed in partnership with DRDO and private industry, underscoring the Navy’s dedication to advancing homeland defence through Indigenous innovation.
Aviation Display and Fly-Past Highlights
The Navy’s advanced aviation capabilities will be displayed through a static display featuring several cutting-edge platforms. Among them is the MiG-29K, a 4th-generation carrier-borne fighter renowned for its agility and combat proficiency. Attendees can also view the Kamov 31, an airborne early warning helicopter that enhances operational awareness. The display includes the versatile Sea King 42B and the MH-60R, both multi-role helicopters designed for anti-submarine and anti-ship missions. Importantly, the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (Navy) was showcased, recently achieving a significant milestone with a successful landing on the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.
A spectacular fly-past will feature the Navy’s ‘Varuna’ formation, with the P-8I Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft leading the charge, flanked by MiG-29K and Hawk 132 jets in a ‘V’ formation symbolizing victory, the Indian Navy statement stated.
Driving Innovation Through Startups
In line with its vision for a technology-driven future, the Indian Navy will also highlight its collaboration with startups, showcasing pioneering naval aviation platforms and systems that promise to redefine operational capabilities.
Charting the Course for the Future
Aero India 2025 will also witness the release of the Navy’s visionary document, ‘Atmanirbhar Indian Naval Aviation—Technological Roadmap 2047,’ which lays out the blueprint for achieving self-reliance in naval aviation over the next two decades.
With its focus on innovation and indigenous capability development, the Indian Navy’s participation at Aero India 2025 is set to be one of the event’s key attractions. Indian Navy will try to draw attention to its strides in defence technology and its march towards ‘Atmanirbharta.’
Team BharatShakti