Airbus, the leading commercial aircraft manufacturer, plans to establish a research and development (R&D) centre at Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya in Gujarat, strengthening its innovation ecosystem in India.

During a discussion with Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Jürgen Westermeier, Managing Director at Airbus, highlighted that the company sources components worth over $1 billion annually from more than 100 Indian suppliers.

Currently, Airbus contributes to India’s economic growth by sourcing over €1 billion annually in components and services for global exports. The European aerospace giant has already established a Digital Centre in Bengaluru, regarded as the backbone of Airbus’ global digital transformation. This centre is the second largest worldwide after its headquarters in Toulouse, France.

In 2018, Airbus expanded its digital capabilities in India by launching a Global Capability Centre (GCC) to support all divisions globally. India is seen as a hub for world-class talent and R&D that powers the aerospace sector.

The company employs over 3,600 personnel across India, including more than 1,500 IT professionals delivering technology solutions. Airbus also collaborates with leading Indian institutes for research and development.