Aero India is jewel in Asian crown: US

The United States (US) will be the largest participant at the Aero Show 2011, with more than 200 official and business delegates.

A high-level delegation led by secretary of commerce Gary Locke and US ambassador to India Timothy J Roemer, will be attending the air show where that country is exhibiting a broad cross-section of military aircraft and equipment through static displays and aerial demonstrations.

“The Aero India is one of the jewels of Asia. The US government’s high-level participation at the Aero India this year is an indication of the growing defence relationship between US and India and a sign of India’s growing prominence on the world stage. Aero India is the most recent manifestation of the increasing significant partnership that includes joint military exercise, regional security initiatives and a flourishing military sales relationship,” Roemer said.

He said that removing the nine Defence Research and Development Organisation and Indian Space Research Organisation laboratories and centres from the entities list following US president Barack Obama’s recent India visit, is further proof to the US’ commitment to be India’s strategic partner.

The Boeing C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft, Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules transport aircraft, Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker aerial refuelling aircraft, Lockheed Martin F-16 Super Viper and Boeing F/1 Super Hornet are among the aircraft which will be participating in the five-day air show starting on Wednesday.

Roemer also said that the US is keen to participate in India’s programmes by developing infrastructure at future and existing airports across the country.

He said that the US would like to participate with India in developing civilian aircraft, helicopters and corporate jets.
India and the US are also looking to sign the Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA) which will lead to mutual acceptance of aeronautical products and parts developed in either country.