Kicking off Asia’s biggest aerospace exposition here today, Defence Minister A.K. Antony said the focus of the country is achieving self-reliance in the defence sector.

Aero India 2013 showcases the latest international technology in military and civil aircraft, avionics and sub-systems, as well as radars in the defence and aerospace sectors.

“Self-reliance in defence area is our focus area,” Antony said in his inaugural address here at the biennial event at Yelahanka Airbase.

“We want to create a strong defence industrial base in the country,” he said.

The event was witnessed by a galaxy of officials, industry delegates, exhibitors and representatives from India and abroad.

He stated that India has put in place a roadmap in the form of defence production policy and is encouraging the country’s public and private sector industries to become active partners in such endeavours.

“There are big opportunities for major international aerospace companies to enter into new alliances and forge partnerships with Indian industry and set up bases in India”, Antony said.

Aero India 2013 will project India’s emergence as a fast-growing and an attractive market, as well as a key outsourcing hub for global aerospace firms, he added.

With the airshow integral to the ceremony, the display began with three Mi-8 helicopters trooping the tricolour, IAF ensign and the Aero India flag just before the event.

A scintillating display of LCA Tejas flown by Gp Capt S Krishna was applauded by all.

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