Tata Advanced Systems Ltd., the strategic aerospace and defence arm of the Tata Group, has signed an agreement with American aerospace manufacturer Bell Helicopter to develop the helicopter market in India. The deal focuses on production and assembly capabilities, training, maintenance, repair and overhaul requirements, and research and development sharing between the two firms.
The aviation and modernisation measures would emphasis on the 'Make in India' initiative, TASL said in a statement. Under the agreement, the two companies would jointly develop commercial and government (including military) rotary wing markets in India under the light utility segment.
"TASL's alliance with Bell Helicopter is significant because of our shared synergies; our defence manufacturing capabilities and focus on innovation and we are well aligned with Bell Helicopter's core competence," S Ramadorai, Chairman of TASL said. "The collaboration, which is in line with the government's 'Make in India' initiative, holds potential not only in the domestic market but, will also strengthen India's position in the international market."
Tata Advanced Systems is focused on providing solutions for aerospace, defence and homeland security. It has become a significant player in the global aerospace market and has capabilities throughout the aerospace value chain, from design to assembling full aircraft.
The firm is well placed in other areas, which includes missiles, radars, un-manned aerial systems, command and control systems.
"TASL has been a leader in driving industrial growth in India, and its organisation ideally complements Bell Helicopter both in terms of innovative thinking, manufacturing capability and a commitment to business ethics, integrity and customer satisfaction," Mitch Snyder, President and CEO of Bell Helicopter, said in the statement.
Bell Helicopter, which was founded in 1935, delivers more than 35,000 aircraft to its customers across the globe.
Tata Advanced Systems Limited had earlier announced the tie-up with Bell Helicopter to jointly bid against Mahindra-Airbus combination for a $2-billion naval chopper manufacturing contract.
