French aerospace and defence giant Safran has opened its first Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, a move that significantly boosts the country’s self-reliance in defence technology and reinforces strategic partnerships between India and France. The facility, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is the world’s largest of its kind and marks a pivotal moment in India’s aerospace and defence sectors.
Safran, a key player in aircraft engines, propulsion systems, aeronautical electronics, and military equipment, powers both civil and military aircraft globally, including the Rafale fighter jets used by the Indian Air Force. The company’s presence in India extends beyond engines, encompassing avionics, landing systems, and other defence-related electronics, making it an integral part of the global aerospace supply chain.
The Hyderabad-based facility, known as Safran Aircraft Engines Services India (SAESI), is strategically significant as it enables deep-level engine servicing locally, reducing India’s reliance on foreign maintenance networks. For military aircraft like the Rafale, this means faster turnaround times, enhanced operational readiness, and better long-term lifecycle management of critical engines. For civil aviation, it strengthens India’s capacity to support a rapidly growing domestic fleet, generates skilled employment, and positions the country as a regional hub for advanced aerospace maintenance.
“By establishing its first MRO outside France in India, Safran not only brings cutting-edge aerospace technology but also enhances India-France defence collaboration and contributes to India’s broader goal of self-reliance in high-end defence and aviation capabilities,” said a company spokesperson.
The facility is equipped to handle deep-level engine overhauls that were previously possible only in France, placing India on the map for advanced aerospace servicing. This move underscores India’s strategic autonomy in military aviation, reducing reliance on overseas networks for engine maintenance and improving the operational readiness of fighter jets. Analysts note that domestic MRO capabilities pave the way for technology transfer and skill development within the country.
Safran currently powers around 80% of India’s aircraft fleet, highlighting its extensive presence in the country. The company expects its revenue in India to triple to over €3 billion by 2030, reflecting both rising aviation demand and the strategic importance of India in Safran’s growth plans. The facility is expected to generate high-skilled employment and strengthen the domestic supply chain for aerospace and defence.
In addition to the MRO facility, Safran is planning to establish its first electronics unit in India, further deepening its footprint in aeronautical and defence electronics. This expansion signals India’s potential as a regional hub for advanced aerospace and defence operations and reinforces India-France defence cooperation. Experts say such strategic investments align with India’s broader goal of self-reliance in defence technology.
The Hyderabad MRO facility represents a convergence of technology, strategic defence capability, and economic opportunity. Its presence in India is expected to strengthen operational readiness, boost domestic aerospace capability, and position India as a key node in global aerospace manufacturing. As the facility begins operations, it stands as a testament to the growing synergy between India and France in the defence and aerospace sectors, setting a precedent for future collaborations.