You have been planning to expand the operations of the International Aerospace Manufacturing Pvt Ltd (IAMPL), Rolls-Royce's joint venture Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. How and when is it happening?
The International Aerospace Manufacturing Pvt. Ltd (IAMPL) became operational in 2013. We have now successfully started production and will reach full capacity by the end of 2014. Built with an investment of US$25 million, this facility is spread across 7,200 sq m in Bangalore.
IAMPL manufactures compressor shrouds and cones for Rolls-Royce gas turbines for new production and the aftermarket. Currently IAMPL ships more than 130 different engine compressor parts to Rolls-Royce aero engines facilities. This new facility represents another commitment to the long-standing partnership with HAL and the future of Indian aerospace industry. This means that the journey has begun and the destination is dependent on future growth and market potential.
HAL and National Aeronautics Ltd are jointly planning to develop a new regional airliner. You have been exploring the possibility of providing engines to this project. Any progress on this front? If this goes ahead, then what options will you offer considering their requirement of a fuel-efficient integrated propulsion system for a twin-engine aircraft?
At this point, it is too early to talk about RTA. As and when such opportunities do arise Rolls-Royce will be prepared as we have the relevant technologies and products to support the growth of the Indian aviation market. Globally, our civil aerospace segment is a major manufacturer of aero engines for the airliner and corporate jet markets. Rolls-Royce engines power more than 30 types of commercial aircrafts and has almost 13,000 engines in service around the world.
What is your reaction to the budget announcements? How do you see the opening up of the defence sector contributing to this industry's growth?
The Union Budget 2014 was a realistic budget with long term view which affirms the vision of the government to bring about an all-round development in the country, with emphasis on manufacturing, job creation, and skill development. From an industry point of view, we welcome the move to increase the FDI in defence. We are confident that such timely measures will allow the sector to brave the slow economic growth and a host of other factors to ensure longer terms sustainable growth.
