In a groundbreaking initiative, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to collaborate with the indigenous industry to outsource select Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities. For the first time, the IAF plans to incubate private sector players to manage back shops, while providing access to aircraft body paint shop infrastructure at one of its Base Repair Depots (BRD). This strategic move aims to reduce reliance on foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and foster self-sufficiency within the country.
This initiative aligns with India’s ambitions to strengthen its domestic aerospace and defense capabilities and tap into the lucrative global MRO market, which was valued at $49.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $66.2 billion by 2030. The Indian MRO market, valued at $1.7 billion in 2021, is also expected to grow significantly, reaching $4 billion by 2031, as per a NITI Aayog report.
In an exclusive interview, Air Marshal CR Mohan, who recently retired as Air Officer-in-Charge Maintenance of the IAF, emphasized the importance of balancing military autonomy with industry partnerships. “We are exploring partnerships with Indian industry in innovative ways,” he stated, clarifying that combat-sensitive tasks will remain under IAF control, while non-combat-sensitive work can be outsourced to private entities.
The IAF has identified different levels of engagement for outsourcing MRO facilities, a move that marks closer collaboration between the armed forces and the private sector. Recognizing that the industry has been hesitant to independently take on military MRO work due to limited volumes and certification challenges, the IAF aims to fill this gap by leveraging its expertise and infrastructure to support the industry.
With approximately 80 outsourcing cases under review, the IAF began the process in 2022, and various approvals are currently underway. One key initiative includes dual-purposing heavy aircraft maintenance facilities at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad. This facility could be used by private airlines for repainting services, reducing the need to send aircraft abroad for these services.
“Eleven industries have already shown interest in this project, and we have received responses to our requests,” Mohan explained. “We’re now preparing to issue Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and within four to six months, we hope to finalize contracts.”
Through these collaborations, the IAF aims not to generate revenue, but rather to secure cost advantages for indigenous partners. Currently, RFPs have been issued for maintenance and overhaul work on various aircraft, including Mi 17 helicopters, MiG29 fighter jets, and AN32 transport planes.
The incubation program is well underway, with “9 BRD” in Pune already signing contracts with Indian companies for repair, refurbishment, and component replacement services. In the immediate term, the IAF is prepared to offer opportunities in the maintenance of ground equipment and supply chain management, paving the way for further industry involvement.
This strategic shift by the IAF signals a bold new chapter in India’s aerospace self-reliance journey, opening doors for local industries to develop expertise in critical MRO services while enhancing the operational readiness and sustainability of the country’s defense assets.