Tata signs MoU with European copter maker

Bangalore: Tata Sons and European copter maker AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, have announced signing an MoU to start a joint venture company for the final assembly line in India for AW119 helicopters.

The agreement was signed at the ongoing Aero India 2009 here. It was signed by Mr Giuseppe Orsi, CEO, AgustaWestland, and Mr Ratan Tata, Chairman, Tata Sons.

The joint venture will be responsible for AW119 final assembly, completion and delivery to customers worldwide, while AgustaWestland will retain global marketing and sales. The first aircraft is scheduled to be delivered in 2011 from the new facility. The production forecast is to build 30 aircraft per year to meet worldwide demand, a release said.

The company has offered the AW119 as a reconnaissance and surveillance helicopter to the Armed Forces. The new venture would be the supplier of these aircraft if they are chosen. The two partners will also explore other commercial opportunities in India for the helicopters.

Mr Orsi said, “Establishing an AW119 final assembly line in India will allow us to meet the growing demand in the world market for a modern single engine helicopter and to further expand our presence in India where we see strong future business opportunities”.