Aero India kicks off today in Bengaluru; Russian, US fighter jets to make debut

The 15th edition of 'Aero India', billed as Asia's largest air show, is all set to be inaugurated in Bengaluru on Monday by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, with all eyes on India’s growing production of military equipment.

In a first, the marquee biennial event will witness participation of two of the world's most advanced fifth-generation fighter aircraft — the Russian Su-57 and the American F-35 Lightning II.

Though Washington DC and Moscow are at loggerheads, jets of these countries have arrived at Bengaluru. Pictures of the two jets standing in proximity of each other on the tarmac of the IAF’s Yelahanka air base at Bengaluru are the first of its kind occurrence.

Videos of practice drills by the Russian pilots over the Bengaluru skies have gone viral over social media.

It marks a milestone in global defence collaboration and technological advancement, offering aviation enthusiasts and defence experts an unparalleled prospect to witness these state-of-the-art warplanes.

“Inclusion of both the Su-57 and F-35 highlights India’s position as a key hub for international defence and aerospace collaboration. Aero India will provide a rare side-by-side comparison of Eastern and Western fifth-generation fighter technology, offering defence analysts, military personnel and aviation enthusiasts valuable insights into their respective capabilities,” the Ministry of Defence said on Sunday.

Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru on Sunday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said Aero India will drive forward the government’s vision of a strong, capable, secure and self-reliant India.

“Aero India is a platform that showcases the strength, resilience, and self-reliance of New India. It is not just crucial for India’s defence preparedness,” the minister added.

Organised in an area speared across 42,000 sq meters and with the confirmed participation of over 900 exhibitors, including 150 foreign companies, the event is set to be the biggest-ever Aero India till date.

Defence ministers or representatives from about 30 countries have come to participate in this event. The presence of Air Chiefs and Secretaries from 43 countries further highlights the significance of this event.