A two-day national seminar titled “Aeronautics 2047”, organised by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), commenced on January 04, 2026, at the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) in Bengaluru. The seminar brings together leaders from the armed forces, defence R&D, industry, and academia to chart the future course of Indian aeronautics in line with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
IAF Chief Inaugurates Seminar, Stresses Timely Deliveries
The seminar was inaugurated by AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff. In his address, he congratulated ADA on the completion of 25 years of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas flight, describing it as a landmark achievement in India’s aerospace journey. Emphasising operational readiness, he highlighted the importance of adhering to delivery timelines to ensure that the Indian Air Force (IAF) remains prepared amid rapidly evolving security challenges.
Focus on Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat 2047
Speaking on the occasion, Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, underlined the critical need to develop indigenous, cutting-edge technologies to reduce dependence on imports. He noted that self-reliance in aerospace systems is central to achieving the long-term national objective of a developed India by 2047.
A Confluence of the Aerospace Ecosystem
The seminar has brought together domain experts, industrial partners, academia, aviation enthusiasts, and policymakers from across the aerospace ecosystem. Discussions are focused on the evolution of aeronautics and the next frontiers of design, manufacturing, and innovation.
Key thematic areas include:
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Manufacturing and assembly for next-generation aircraft
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Digital manufacturing and digital twin technology
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Advanced aerodynamics for next-generation combat aircraft
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Propulsion technologies and flight testing techniques
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Certification challenges and flight control systems & avionics
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Maintainability challenges in fighter aircraft
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) in aircraft design
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Precision manufacturing for actuators
LCA Tejas: From Sketch to Squadron
A major highlight of the seminar is the journey of LCA Tejas, designed and developed by ADA. The programme has achieved over 5,600 successful flight trials, involving collaboration across more than 100 design work centres, including government laboratories, academic institutions, and industry partners.
Several niche technologies—such as carbon composites, lightweight materials, fly-by-wire flight control systems, digital utility management systems, glass cockpit avionics, and advanced software—were developed indigenously, enabling Tejas to emerge as a fourth-generation fighter aircraft.
Future Variants and Operational Strength
The seminar also focuses on future variants, including LCA Mk1A, LCA Mk II, and LCA Navy, which are at various stages of development. The LCA Mk1A, an advanced and more capable variant, is expected to play a critical role in meeting the operational requirements of the IAF.
To date, 38 LCA aircraft (32 fighters and 6 trainers) have been inducted into two IAF squadrons, significantly strengthening India’s indigenous combat aviation capability.
Industry Participation and Indigenous Showcase
As part of Aeronautics 2047, a large number of PSUs, DPSUs, private industries, and MSMEs are showcasing indigenously designed and developed airborne products. The exhibition highlights the growing maturity of India’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem and its ability to support complex defence platforms.
Conclusion
The ‘Aeronautics 2047’ seminar marks a pivotal moment in India’s aerospace roadmap, reflecting a confident shift towards self-reliance, innovation, and global competitiveness. By bringing together the armed forces, DRDO, industry, and academia, the event underscores India’s resolve to build advanced aeronautical systems indigenously and position itself as a leading aerospace power by 2047.
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Source: PIB
