As India accelerates its defence modernisation, RTX, through its subsidiary Collins Aerospace, is at the forefront of delivering advanced aerospace systems for the Indian Air Force (IAF). In an exclusive interview with Raksha Anirveda, Martin Williamson, APAC Regional Managing Director of Collins Aerospace, shares insights into RTX’s enduring partnership with the IAF, which is celebrating its Foundation Day on October 8. With contributions to indigenous platforms like the Tejas Mk1 and the sustainment of legacy aircraft like the Jaguars, RTX is prepared to expand its role in India’s next-generation fighter and transport programs. Excerpts from the interview…
RA: Could you tell us about RTX’s presence on Indian Air Force’s platforms?
MW: Collins Aerospace, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation (formerly Raytheon Technologies), designs, develops, and manufactures critical systems for a significant portion of the world’s military and commercial aircraft. We have a longstanding relationship with the IAF, supporting key platforms that serve as the backbone of its operations. Our systems are found in the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1, a project that underscores India’s push toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Beyond that, we’re involved in several other platforms such as the C-17 Globemaster III, the C295, the C-130J Hercules, the P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, the AH-64E Apache, CH-47F Chinook, and the MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, which are integral to IAF’s diverse mission set.
In addition to new and emerging platforms, Collins Aerospace also plays a vital role in sustaining legacy platforms within the IAF. We work closely with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to ensure the longevity of aircraft like the SEPECAT Jaguars and the BAE Hawks by providing essential spares and system repairs. These platforms, though not new, are critical to India’s air capabilities and will remain so for decades to come, thanks to our sustainment efforts. Sustaining and upgrading these platforms is not merely about maintaining availability; it’s about enhancing mission-readiness and extending their lifecycle.
On the Pratt & Whitney side, we continue to be the driving force behind many of the IAF’s modern transport aircraft. For instance, the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III is powered by the reliable F117 engine, while the Airbus C-295, which marks the IAF’s latest transport acquisition, is equipped with the advanced PW127G engine. These engines are a testament to the technological edge that Pratt & Whitney brings, combining performance and dependability. In fact, over 7,000 Pratt & Whitney military engines are in service with 34 armed forces globally, a statistic that underlines our leadership in military propulsion systems.
RA: India is looking at an accelerated development path for its fighter and helicopter platforms. Are you partnering with India on any of its future platforms?
MW: India’s defence sector is on the cusp of significant transformation, especially in the realms of fighter jets and helicopters, where we see enormous potential. RTX is positioned to deliver cutting-edge systems that will define the next generation of combat platforms. Collins Aerospace already has a presence on the LCA Mk1 through our Electric Power Generation System (EPGS), and we are excited about extending our capabilities to the LCA Mk2 as well. As India advances from LCA Mk1 to Mk2, RTX stands ready to supply the advanced systems required for these next-generation aircraft.
“We have a longstanding relationship with the IAF, supporting key platforms that serve as the backbone of its operations. Our systems are found in the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1, a project that underscores India’s push toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing.”
Two of the most ambitious upcoming programs are the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). These platforms will require state-of-the-art technology to meet India’s evolving defence needs. Our ACES® ejection seats, for instance, have saved thousands of lives over the decades and represent the pinnacle of safety in aerial warfare. Our landing and braking systems, developed with advanced carbon technology, offer unmatched durability and performance, critical for the operational lifespan of these advanced platforms. We see these technologies as integral to India’s future warfighter requirements.
In addition to fighters, India is looking to strengthen its transport capabilities with new platforms such as the Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA). Some of the potential contenders for this category, including the Embraer C-390 and Lockheed Martin C-130J, already feature Collins content. The C-390, for example, is powered by the IAE V2500 engines and features a comprehensive suite of Collins products such as avionics, actuators, seating systems, and cargo handling solutions. As we continue to work closely with India, we’re not only bringing our technology to the table but also discussing opportunities for co-development and Make-in-India initiatives, particularly for flagship projects like the AMCA and TEDBF.
RA: Could you elaborate on what Pratt & Whitney and Collins have done in India so far, to build an ecosystem of industry, aftermarket, and talent to support India’s aerospace ambitions?
MW: Our engagement with India goes beyond supplying products. Collins Aerospace is deeply invested in building a robust aerospace ecosystem that supports the country’s long-term strategic goals. We are one of India’s largest aerospace exporters, a position that has allowed us to foster a thriving ecosystem. Our investments in manufacturing, design, and talent development have been integral to making India a key player in the global aerospace industry.
“India is looking to strengthen its transport capabilities with new platforms such as the Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA). Some of the potential contenders for this category, including the Embraer C-390 and Lockheed Martin C-130J, already feature Collins content.”
We started our engineering journey in India in 2007, providing high-end engineering services across multiple disciplines, including software, mechanical, electronics, and system engineering. Today, we have fully integrated design-to-production capabilities based out of Bengaluru. This hub serves as a key node in our worldwide engineering network.
We’re also expanding our supplier network in India, working with nearly 200 local suppliers to source key components and materials. Our long-term goal is to increase our sourcing to $150 million annually by 2030, a clear indicator of our commitment to building a world-class aerospace supply chain in India.
What kind of investments have you planned in India, and what will be their focus?
MW: Pratt & Whitney has invested over $40 million in our Centres of Excellence, which are focused on engineering, digital transformation, supply chain operations, and customer service. Collins Aerospace has invested an additional $200 million in expanding its R&D and production facilities in India. The key focus of Collins’ investment will be on our manufacturing sites near Bengaluru airport. In fact, for Collins, Bengaluru is the only location that handles all six portfolios of our company, including avionics, interiors, advanced structures, and connected aviation solutions.
Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney bring a strong mix of talent and industrial capabilities to India’s aerospace platforms. The work being done by more than 6,000 RTX employees across Collins, Pratt & Whitney, and RTX Enterprise Services is driving the development of cutting-edge technologies that will shape the future of flight.
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