Aero India 2023 was opened by PM Modi, who stated that the event embodies India’s latest capabilities and ambitions.
US 5th gen F-35 landing in India
At the Aero India 2023 exhibition near Bengaluru, two F-35 fighters from the US Air Force landed at the Yelahanka air force base, causing a stir among the crowds. The fifth-generation fighters were parked without much ado in the static display area, and their sight prompted onlookers to take selfies.
Before Aero India 2023, there were whispers of an F-35 making a flyover at the air show as a show of support from the US military. However, the landing of two F-35s and a firm declaration from the US government took many by surprise.
According to an official statement from the US Consulate General in Chennai, the latest fifth-generation fighters from the USAF, including the stealthy and supersonic multirole F-35A Lightning II and F-35A Joint Strike Fighter, are set to debut at Aero India 2023.
The statement further mentioned that the F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team would showcase its unparalleled aerial capabilities to the crowd following its arrival from Hill Air Force Base in Utah, USA. Additionally, the F-35A Lightning II from Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska will be on static display.
10 Notable Points on Aero India 2023
- With the theme ‘The runway to a billion opportunities’, the five-day event will display India’s advancements in aerospace and defence.
- On the opening day of Aero India 2023, there were aerobatics performances and a sizable exhibition and trade fair.
- Around 809 companies from 98 different countries are participating in Aero India 2023.
- PM Narendra Modi, while inaugurating the event, highlighted that Aero India exemplifies India’s fresh vigor and ambitions. He cited the indigenous Tejas aircraft and INS Vikrant as examples of India’s potential.
- In his speech, PM Modi stated that India’s achievements validate its potential and capabilities. He also added that the roaring Tejas aircraft in the sky is proof of the success of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. He further emphasized that India will leave no stone unturned in its hard work towards becoming a new India of the 21st century.
- PM Modi additionally emphasized the significance of hosting Aero India in Karnataka, which is the nucleus of India’s technological progress.
- As part of its “Make in India” initiative, the government has been urging companies such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin Corp, and Airbus to not just manufacture parts, but also share technology within the country.
- Elizabeth Jones, the Charge d’Affaires Ambassador to India, leads the biggest US delegation to attend the biennial air show. The US is planning to showcase its stealthy and supersonic F-35A Lightning II and F-35A Joint Strike Fighter, both fifth-generation fighters.
- Numerous Indian and foreign defence companies are anticipated to sign 251 agreements, with an estimated investment of ₹75,000 crore.
- Air India is reportedly set to make a landmark announcement for purchasing nearly 500 jets from Airbus SE and Boeing Co, with a list price worth over $100 billion.
Recommended reading: New Covid Rules for International Flights to India from Designated Countries: Notable Points