SOURCE: AFI
Mumbai-based Aman Aviation & Aerospace Solutions has made history by securing a contract to perform Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services on the Nepalese Army’s Mi-17 helicopters. This groundbreaking achievement marks a significant milestone for India’s aerospace industry, as it is the first time an Indian MRO company has been entrusted with such a crucial task for Russian-made military helicopters.
The contract is a testament to India’s growing expertise and capabilities in the aerospace sector. It also signals a new era of regional cooperation and trust in Indian technical prowess.
Aman Johri, Director of Business Development at Aman Aviation & Aerospace Solutions, emphasized the importance of this deal, stating that it demonstrates the potential for civil-military convergence. The company has been working towards this goal for over two years and identified the Nepalese Army as a prime candidate due to the challenges they faced in managing spares, engineers, and technicians for their Mi-17 fleet.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently operates around 220 Mi-17 helicopters, which have been in service since 1991. These versatile aircraft are used for various roles, including troop transport, assault operations, search and rescue, and disaster relief. 3 BRD Chandigarh, a dedicated IAF facility, has been handling the maintenance of these helicopters for years. However, the increasing workload and the IAF’s shift towards public-private partnerships created an opportunity for private MRO companies like Aman Aviation.
Aman Johri highlighted the team’s extensive experience with Mi-17 helicopters, comprising former IAF, HAL, and DRDO personnel, as well as civil aviation experts with MESCO Airlines, a former Mi-17 operator in India. This strong team, combined with the company’s capabilities, convinced the Nepalese Army to award the MRO contract.
This historic deal not only showcases India’s growing stature in the aerospace industry but also strengthens bilateral relations with Nepal. It paves the way for further cooperation in the defense sector and highlights the potential for Indian MRO companies to play a vital role in the region.