GMR Aero Technic has signed an agreement with Boeing Defence India Pvt Ltd to undertake Phase 56 heavy maintenance checks for the Boeing P-8I maritime patrol aircraft fleet operated by the Indian Navy.
Under the agreement, GMR Aero Technic will carry out the maintenance work at its Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility located within the GMR Aerospace Park SEZ in Hyderabad.
Structural and system upgrades
The company said the maintenance programme will include structural upgrades, comprehensive inspections, painting and system upgrades in line with Boeing and defence aviation maintenance standards.
The Boeing P-8I is a long-range maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
P-8I fleet plays key role in maritime security
The Indian Navy currently operates a fleet of 12 P-8I aircraft deployed across squadrons at INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu and INS Hansa in Goa. The aircraft is considered a key platform for strengthening India’s maritime surveillance and operational readiness.
GMR Aero Technic eyes defence MRO growth
GMR Aero Technic President Ashok Gopinath said the agreement marks the company’s first major engagement supporting a frontline defence aircraft platform.
“ This engagement reflects strong confidence in the depth of our technical capabilities and the expertise of our highly qualified and skilled workforce. The agreement reinforces our long-term vision of building India into a global defence MRO hub and establishing GMR Aero Technic as a trusted provider of complex military aircraft sustainment solutions,” he said.
Boeing Defence highlights indigenous capability push
Boeing Defence India Managing Director Nikhil Joshi said the partnership aligns with the company’s focus on strengthening indigenous aerospace and defence capabilities in India.
“This partnership builds on our long-standing focus on developing indigenous aerospace and defence capability, and reinforces our investment in services, sustainment, manufacturing, research and development, and talent in India,” he said.