Boeing, Tata JV to perform AH-64 work

Boeing and Tata Advanced Systems have announced a joint venture to produce aerostructures for the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter in India.

The joint venture will also compete for additional work on other Boeing plaftorms, says Boeing.

“This partnership will capitalise on India’s industrial capability, innovation and talent to contribute to Boeing’s long-term competitiveness and position us for future growth in the global marketplace,” says Chris Chadwick, president and chief executive of Boeing Defense, Space & Security.

“It is a demonstration of our commitment to further accelerate our partnership with one of the world’s fastest growing economies.”

In late September, the US manufactuer finalised its long-planned contract to acquire new attack and transport helicopters from the USA, with Boeing to deliver a combined 37 aircraft under the programme: 22 AH-64E Apaches and 15 CH-47F Chinooks.

Under Indian defence offset rules, foreign contractors must plough 30% of a contract's value into local industry. New Delhi is also pursuing a ‘Make In India’ initiative to encourage the domestic production of defence equipment.

Tata already has workshare on a number of foreign programmes, such as the fuselage of the Sikorsky S-92 helicopter, composite floor beams for the 787-9, and ground support equipment for the C-17.