British firm Martin-Baker to invest ₹380 crore in Karnataka aerospace plant
The investment by the defence equipment manufacturer is expected to create more than 500 highly skilled jobs in the state.
British defence equipment manufacturer Martin-Baker plans to invest ₹380 crore in Karnataka to establish a manufacturing plant, according to a report by Urban Acres. Karnataka Industries Minister M.B. Patil said on Wednesday that the project is expected to generate over 500 highly skilled jobs.
The company, which produces life-support equipment and ejection seats for military aircraft, has requested 10 acres of land in the Harohalli Industrial Area's fifth phase. Minister Patil stated that the land would be provided soon.
The proposed facility aims to bolster domestic manufacturing, repair, and maintenance capabilities while strengthening the local defence supply chain. Patil noted that more than 900 Martin-Baker ejection seats are currently used in aircraft operated by the Indian Navy and Air Force.
The announcement also included a proposal from deep-tech company Tonbo Imaging India. The firm has requested five acres in Bengaluru’s Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR) for a high-power microwave manufacturing facility and 130 acres at Mulawad in Vijayapura district for a testing site.
Tonbo Imaging plans to develop electro-optical systems, thermal imaging, and automated defence equipment. The minister said the company intends to carry out testing, evaluation, and demonstration activities at the Mulawad location.
The projects must complete land-allocation and administrative processes before construction and operations start. The minister's statement did not provide specific timelines for production or construction schedules.