After five days of thrilling aerial displays, cutting-edge technology showcases, and major defense announcements, the 15th edition of Aero India concluded on February 14, 2025. The biennial airshow, hosted at the Yelahanka Air Force Base in Bengaluru, is recognized as Asia’s premier aviation exhibition, bringing together top defense manufacturers, global vendors, and military leaders.
This year’s edition was particularly grand, attracting nearly 500 delegates from 84 countries. A staggering 931 exhibitors participated, including 58 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and 782 Indian firms, showcasing India’s growing prominence in the global defense sector.
As the curtains close on Aero India 2025, we take a look at the most significant moments that captured the attention of defense experts and aviation enthusiasts alike.
F-35 vs. Su-57
Arguably the most spectacular highlight of the event was the presence of two rival fifth-generation stealth fighters—the Russian Su-57 Felon and the American F-35 Lightning II—sharing the same airbase for the first time in history.
While the F-35 made its second appearance at Aero India after debuting in 2023, the Su-57 made its grand debut this year. The rare sight of these cutting-edge warplanes stationed side by side went viral on social media and sparked intense debate in global defense circles.
Both aircraft performed breathtaking aerial displays, underscoring their advanced maneuverability and stealth capabilities. Interestingly, both aircraft are now officially being offered to the Indian Air Force (IAF)—a decision that could significantly shape India’s defense strategy in the coming years.
Russia’s state arms exporter Rosoboronexport reaffirmed its offer for the Su-57E, proposing a comprehensive partnership, including technology transfer, local production in India, and future co-development.
Meanwhile, in a surprising move, U.S. President Donald Trump announced his administration’s willingness to sell F-35s to India. On February 13, he stated:
“Starting this year, we will be increasing military sales to India by many billions of dollars. We are also paving the way to ultimately provide India with the F-35, Stealth fighters.”
This unexpected offer has further complicated India’s decision-making process, with experts debating whether India should procure an existing 5th-generation fighter while continuing to develop its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
India Showcases AMCA & Next-Gen Combat Systems
One of the major attractions at the airshow was the full-scale model of India’s indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Accompanying the AMCA at the exhibit were:
- CATS Warrior: A futuristic loyal wingman drone concept.
- RUAV-200: A state-of-the-art Rotary Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.
The AMCA project, which aims to deliver a twin-engine, multi-role stealth fighter for the IAF, is expected to be operational by the mid-2030s. However, its slow progress has prompted discussions on whether India should acquire an interim 5th-generation fighter, such as the F-35 or Su-57, to bridge the gap.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, addressing concerns, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the project:
“We have made a firm resolve to manufacture the fifth-generation fighter aircraft within the country.”
Despite this, experts continue to advocate for accelerated development and additional funding to ensure the AMCA remains on schedule.
HJT-36 ‘Yashas’
HAL also introduced the Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT) HJT-36 Neostar upgrade, now rebranded as ‘Yashas’. This advanced trainer aircraft has undergone major upgrades, including:
- A modernized cockpit
- State-of-the-art avionics
- Enhanced weight management
Indian-built Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) to reduce dependence on foreign components
HAL’s Chairman and Managing Director, DK Sunil, described the upgrade as a game-changer for military pilot training:
“The large-scale changes to the baseline intermediate training platform have led to significant improvements in capability.”
To further demonstrate confidence in the aircraft, IAF Chief Air Marshal AP Singh took a 35-minute test flight on the Yashas, signaling potential future adoption by the Indian Air Force.
Airbus vs. Embraer
As the IAF seeks to replace its aging An-32 and Il-76 transport fleets, Aero India 2025 became the battleground for two major contenders:
- Airbus A400M ‘Atlas’
- Embraer C-390 ‘Millennium’
The C-390 Millennium returned for its second consecutive appearance, with Embraer partnering with Mahindra Defence to offer the aircraft under the Make in India initiative.
Meanwhile, Airbus showcased its A400M Atlas, emphasizing its capabilities in tactical airlift and strategic military transport. Airbus has pitched the aircraft as an ideal fit for India’s long-term defense logistics needs.
With both contenders aggressively lobbying for the deal, the IAF is expected to make a final decision in the coming months.
USAF Showcases B-1B Lancer & KC-135 Stratotanker
The U.S. Air Force (USAF) made a strong statement at Aero India 2025 with spectacular flypasts featuring:
- KC-135 Stratotanker: Aerial refueling tanker, enhancing the endurance of combat aircraft.
- B-1B Lancer ‘Bone’: A supersonic heavy bomber, capable of deep-strike missions.
The B-1B Lancer, designed for nuclear deterrence and strategic bombing missions, remains a symbol of U.S. air power, and its presence underscored deepening India-U.S. defense ties.
India & UK Strengthen Defense Cooperation
A significant milestone in Indo-UK defense collaboration was the contract signing between Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for the first batch of Laser Beam Riding MANPAD (LBRM) Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) Missiles.
This agreement marks India’s first acquisition of such technology, which includes Starstreak high-velocity missiles and launchers. The deal follows a 2021 partnership between Thales and BDL and is expected to strengthen India’s air defense capabilities.
In another key development, the UK’s MBDA and BDL announced progress on establishing an Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) facility in Hyderabad, further deepening bilateral defense ties.
India’s Next-Generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD)
India and the UK signed a Statement of Intent to develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for the Indian Navy’s next-generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet.
- GE Vernova & BHEL collaborating on India’s first maritime land-based testing facility.
- India aims to have its new LPD fleet operational by 2030.
- A contract for four new ships is expected in 2026.
Currently, the INS Jalashwa is India’s sole LPD, highlighting the need for expanding amphibious warfare capabilities.
With a record-breaking number of participants, landmark defense deals, and thrilling aerial displays, Aero India 2025 cemented India’s position as a major player in global defense and aviation.
As India navigates crucial decisions—whether to acquire an interim 5th-gen fighter, select a new transport aircraft, or accelerate indigenous defense programs—the outcomes of this airshow will shape the future of the Indian Air Force and military modernization.
With India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative gaining momentum, the next edition of Aero India in 2027 promises to be even more groundbreaking.
