Blitz Bureau
Reliance Infrastructure is set to ‘turbocharge’ its defence vertical over the next few years with a focus on aircraft upgrade programmes. The Anil Ambani-led organisation recently became first private sector company to independently execute a comprehensive aircraft upgrade programme without being the original manufacturer — a domain traditionally dominated by public sector units and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The company is now eyeing an opportunity of Rs 5,000 crore over the next seven to ten years.
According to sources in the company, Reliance recently upgraded 55 Dornier-228 aircraft under a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics, in collaboration with US-based avionics firm Genesys. The company was initially awarded a contract for 37 aircraft and secured a repeat order for 18 additional units following a successful execution. Sources indicated that the total value of the Dornier upgrade contract was Rs 350 crore. The upgraded fleet is now operational with the Indian Air Force, Indian Navy, and Indian Coast Guard.
The global market for military aircraft and helicopter upgrades stands at more than Rs 5,00,000 crore annually — projected to cross the Rs 7,00,000 crore mark in the next seven years. India, with a vast inventory of legacy platforms, offers a substantial domestic opportunity, especially as the armed forces modernise older fleets for next-gen warfare.
Reliance Infra makes a splash with rejig of 55 Dornier aircraft
Globally, this market is driven by budget-conscious militaries extending the life and capabilities of existing fleets. Upgrades span avionics modernisation, structural enhancements, weapon systems integration, engine performance improvements, and advanced sensor suites.
Key regional players include the US, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, where upgrading aging fleets like the F 16, Eurofighter, Mi 17, and Seahawk offers cost-effective alternatives to fielding new platforms. These modernisation efforts often include installation of digital cockpits, AESA radars, precision-guided weapons compatibility, and improved survivability systems (e.g., infrared / electronic countermeasures).
Market growth is fuelled by increasing global security challenges, budget pressures, and rapid technology advancements such as artificial intelligence, network-centric warfare, and UAV interoperability. Major defence contractors — Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Airbus, Leonardo, and Saab — compete alongside specialised upgrade firms. Meanwhile, emerging markets such as India, Africa and Latin America are initiating upgrade programmes to boost regional defence capacities.
Forecasts through the late 2020s suggest solid compound annual growth rates in the high single digits, as operators balance cost and capability. Lifecycle extension programs become especially prominent amid geopolitical uncertainty — upgrading existing fleets is both strategic and economical.
Reliance Infrastructure is now looking to scale up its aircraft and helicopter upgrade capabilities, working with global partners to deliver world-class solutions. The company is also the key player in the performance-based logistics programme for Rafale fighter jets in India in partnership with Thales of France.
The update came days after the company released its fourth quarter results for FY25 — reducing its standalone net debt to zero from banks and financial institutions.