India is making waves in defence manufacturing. Gliders India Limited (GIL) recently landed a substantial export deal worth ₹30 crore with Vietnam. This contract involves providing brake and pilot parachutes for the Su-30 fighter jets. These parachutes are crucial for safe landings and emergency situations, helping jets slow down during high-speed landings.
As part of a government initiative, GIL has positioned itself as a leader in aerospace textiles and recovery systems. This latest deal underscores the growing trust in Indian defence products on the global stage, indicating that foreign military sectors are willing to rely on Indian manufacturers for high-quality and safe equipment.
The parachutes will be made from materials sourced locally, aligning with India’s goal of self-reliance. The manufacturing process will involve a skilled workforce to ensure the parachutes can withstand the intense stress faced by fighter jets. For instance, the brake parachutes need to deploy rapidly at high speeds to effectively shorten landing distances. This requires top-notch materials and precision engineering.
Experts in the field have noted that GIL’s recent success can be traced back to its modernization following the corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board. This transition has enhanced GIL’s ability to design and produce intricate aerospace safety gear that meets international standards.
This development is reshaping India’s role in the global arms market. By exporting advanced aviation safety equipment, India is moving from being just an importer to a significant player in defence technology. This aligns well with the Indian Government’s “Make in India” initiative, which aims to boost local manufacturing and increase India’s presence in the global defence supply chain.
Beyond the economic benefits, this contract also strengthens the defence ties between India and Vietnam, potentially paving the way for more tech collaborations in the aerospace sector. It enhances India’s standing as a trustworthy partner for military equipment.
As Gliders India Limited continues to receive high-profile contracts, it sends a powerful message: Indian companies are ready and capable of delivering critical systems trusted by armed forces around the world. This shift marks a clear transformation in India’s defence narrative.
For more informative insights on India’s defence policies and market trends, you can refer to reports from the Defence News.
