Eurocopter is showcasing the specifications and mock up models of its comprehensive range of helicopters, like the Armed Reconnaissance & Observation AS 550C3 Fennec and its naval version, the twin engine AS555SP, together with the state of the art multi role 10 ton class EC725 in a highly sophisticated Combat SAR (CSAR) configuration.
Commenting on Eurocopter’s participation at Defexpo 2008, Mr. Norbert Ducrot, Senior Vice President Sales & Customer Relations, Asia Pacific Eurocopter said, “India’s aviation and defence sector is on the verge of embarking one of the most impressive modernisation campaigns ever and Eurocopter provides the biggest range of solutions that are suitable to fulfill the needs of not only the country’s civil aviation sector but also the highly specific requirements of various upcoming RFP’s from all three wings of the Indian Armed Forces. We at Eurocopter are proud to be here to witness the building of India’s future”.
In the military environment, Eurocopter currently has a market share of 55% in India, comprising of HAL-made Cheetah / Chetak helicopters. Current market size of the Indian market is about 740 military helicopters in India.
In the civil market, Eurocopter currently has a fleet of 64 helicopters flying in India, representing a share of 40 percent. Eurocopter covers about 50 percent of the oil & gas segment, with 27 of its aircrafts being in service with Pawan Hans and Vectra. The company has 12 aircrafts in VIP/State Government operations with leading groups like Reliance, Raymond, Jindal and Sahara. Charter and tourism helicopters amount up to 6 helicopters, in a fast growing sector. 19 Cheetah/Chetaks are currently flown by civil customers.
In 2007, Eurocopter doubled its objectives in India and sold 15 new aircraft, equivalent to a value of 100 million US $. For 2008, the organisation intends to reach a growth rate of 30 percent by selling more than 20 aircraft, representing a value of approximately 150 Million US$. Main focus segments are Oil & Gas, Corporate & VIP as well as Charter/Heli-Tourism.
Bonds with Indian industry are intense, as HAL is part of Eurocopter’s global supply chain for Ecureuil/Fennec airframe components.
