ENA Sectors 2025-06-09 16:47:12 <p><span style="font-size:14px"><strong>New Delhi, Jun 9 (KNN)</strong> Reliance Infrastructure is set to significantly boost its defence vertical by targeting aircraft and helicopter upgrade programmes worth Rs 5,000 crore over the next 7 10 years, sources revealed.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">This strategic shift marks Reliance as the first private Indian firm to independently handle comprehensive aircraft upgrades&mdash;an area traditionally dominated by public sector units and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">The company recently achieved a milestone by successfully upgrading 55 Dornier-228 aircraft under a Rs 350 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), in collaboration with US-based avionics firm Genesys.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Initially awarded a contract for 37 aircraft, Reliance received a repeat order for 18 more units due to its performance.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">These upgraded aircraft are currently in service with the Indian Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard. With military platforms having lifespans of up to 40 years, periodic upgrades&mdash;especially of avionics, mission systems, and safety features&mdash;are essential.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Experts note that lifecycle investments in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) and upgrades can exceed 200 300 per cent of an aircrafts original acquisition cost.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Globally, the aircraft upgrade market is valued at over Rs 5 lakh crore annually, projected to rise to Rs 7 lakh crore within seven years. Indias vast fleet of legacy platforms offers a strong domestic opportunity as the armed forces modernise.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">In addition to its Dornier success, Reliance is also involved in the performance-based logistics (PBL) programme for Rafale fighter jets in partnership with Frances Thales.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">These developments align with the governments Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and position Reliance as a rising private player in the defence aviation space.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">With a strong track record, global collaborations, and a growing portfolio, Reliance Infrastructure is emerging as a key driver in Indias defence manufacturing and services sector.</span></p> <p><em><strong><span style="font-size:14px">(KNN Bureau)</span></strong></em></p> 42378 https://knnindia.co.in/news/newsdetails/sectors/reliance-infrastructure-to-expand-defence-business-with-aircraft-upgrade-focus 2025-06-09 16:47:12 knnindia.co.in