India sets dates for 2027 Aero India show in Bengaluru

India’s defence ministry has announced the dates for the 2027 Aero India show. The biennial event will be held in Bengaluru from February 8 to 12.

The ministry describes the show as a platform for showcasing India’s aerospace and defence manufacturing capabilities, as well as for business engagement and international collaboration.

It will be the first Aero India following the May 2025 conflict between India and Pakistan, in which the Indian Air Force is believed to have lost up to five aircraft.

The event is expected to provide clarity on several acquisition programmes. These include plans for 114 additional Rafales and the delivery status of Hindustan Aeronautics’ Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft. Su-30MKI upgrade work may also be discussed.

Attention will also focus on stealth aircraft plans, given China’s fielding of Chengdu J-20s and Pakistan’s intended acquisition of the Shenyang J-35. India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme remains without a prototype.

Collaborative Combat Aircraft could feature, with HAL’s Combat Air Teaming System concept potentially pairing uncrewed aircraft with the Tejas.