Boeing’s supply chain in India exports Rs 10,000 crore worth of aerospace components annually, establishing the company as the leading foreign manufacturer in the country, according to Boeing India President Salil Gupte. Gupte refuted claims that high-tech aviation manufacturing was not taking place in India, noting the significant opportunities present now compared to a decade ago. He highlighted Boeing’s increased presence in India, with 5,000 aeronautical engineers at its Bengaluru site focusing on both domestic and international projects.
Boeing’s extensive supply chain in India includes suppliers in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Gujarat, and northern India, exporting around Rs 10,000 crore of aerospace components annually. Gupte mentioned at ‘Aero India 2025’ that Boeing is the largest foreign OEM in India. They are actively participating in ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives in the defense sector, focusing on localizing manufacturing. Defense contracts now require 50% indigenous content for final assembly, prompting Boeing to invest in local production to meet these requirements.
He emphasized partner companies like US tech giant GE, currently working with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). GE plays a significant role in civil and defense platforms. For assembly in India, existing tier-1 suppliers and engine manufacturers are vital, a trend already underway. Boeing has had a presence in India for eight decades; its growth has accelerated in the past 10 years. Boeing actively supports civil aviation and has introduced key defense platforms such as the C-17 cargo aircraft, P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, and Apache helicopters.
Boeing, in close talks with India’s military, is set to deliver six more Apache helicopters to the Army with 22 already supplied to the Air Force. Discussions on extra reconnaissance aircraft, like P-8s, are ongoing, with the Navy having the final say on procurement timing. Gupte underlined Boeing’s role in promoting interoperability between Indian and US forces in the Indo-Pacific, enhancing regional strength and freedom. The state fleet, including aircraft for the Prime Minister and President of India, is also part of Boeing’s operations.
Boeing holds around 600 aircraft orders from Indian carriers like Air India, Akasa, and SpiceJet, covering both narrow-body and wide-body planes. Their India operations benefit both countries, as each Indian employee and supplier aids projects in the US. When India places plane orders, they also sustain numerous US jobs, fostering a mutually advantageous relationship, as highlighted by Gupte.
Sources News From Various Digital Platforms, Websites, Journalists, And Agencies.
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