Karnataka to establish five aerospace and defence parks across key cities, says CM Siddaramaiah

Bengaluru: In a major push to boost India’s aerospace and defence manufacturing ecosystem, Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday announced the development of five world-class aerospace and defence parks in strategic locations across the state.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Collins India Operations Centre at the KIADB Aerospace Park in Devanahalli, Siddaramaiah said the new facilities would be established in Bengaluru, Belagavi, Mysuru, Tumakuru and Chamarajanagar. Each park will offer “plug-and-play” infrastructure, significantly reducing setup time for industries and attracting global investors to Karnataka’s thriving aerospace sector.

“These state-of-the-art parks will strengthen Karnataka’s position as a leading hub for aerospace innovation and manufacturing,” Siddaramaiah said. “The decision by Collins Aerospace, a global leader in aviation technology, to set up its 26-acre integrated operations centre in Bengaluru reflects the strength of our industrial ecosystem and the state’s future potential.”

Collins Aerospace has invested USD 25 million (around Rs 210 crore) in the project, which is expected to generate over 2,000 skilled jobs in research, development, and advanced manufacturing. The chief minister highlighted that Karnataka already contributes nearly 65% of India’s total aerospace and defence output, supported by more than 2,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) operating in the sector.

“Companies like Mahindra Aerospace and Rangsons have made major investments here. In fact, Rangsons, in collaboration with Boeing, is investing Rs 2,915 crore,” Siddaramaiah said. “Our goal is to attract Rs 45,000 crore in fresh investments and create 60,000 jobs in the aerospace and defence industries over the next five years.”

He described the Collins Aerospace facility as a “shining example” of successful public-private partnership, aligning with both Karnataka’s industrial vision and the national ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Inviting global aerospace giants to invest in the state, Siddaramaiah added, “Karnataka offers world-class infrastructure, skilled manpower and progressive policies – making it the ideal destination for high-tech industries.”

Large and medium industries minister MB Patil, who was also present, said this is Collins Aerospace’s first Indian facility under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, designed to serve aviation majors like Boeing and Airbus. “This project reflects the success of Karnataka’s industry-friendly approach and ease of doing business,” he said.

Patil noted that the state’s new industrial policy places a strong focus on high-tech sectors such as aerospace, defence and electronics, ensuring continued investment and job creation in advanced manufacturing.

(with inputs from agencies)