Reliance Defence Partners with US Coastal Mechanics for ₹20,000 Crore Defence MRO Project
Reliance Defence Limited, a unit of Reliance Infrastructure, has forged a strategic alliance with Coastal Mechanics Inc., based in the United States, to capitalize on India's ₹20,000 crore defence maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) industry. This partnership seeks to deliver extensive lifecycle support and upgrade services for vital Indian military assets such as fighter jets, helicopters, and air defence systems.
Announced on Monday, this collaboration represents a noteworthy step in bolstering India's defence support framework. Coastal Mechanics Inc., an authorized contractor for the US Department of Defense, brings its established expertise to this joint effort. The partnership will concentrate on sustaining and modernizing platforms including the Jaguar and MiG-29 fighter aircraft, Apache helicopters, and L-70 air defence guns, along with other legacy systems used by the Indian Armed Forces.
As part of the agreement, the two companies will establish a joint venture at the MIHAN (Multi-modal International Cargo Hub and Airport at Nagpur) facility in Maharashtra. This hub will provide MRO and upgrade services to meet domestic demands and explore potential export opportunities. According to the companies, this facility will serve as a long-term centre of excellence, aimed at extending the operational lifespan of current military assets.
This new venture is in line with India's transition towards performance-based logistics and lifecycle extension strategies, moving away from the frequent replacement of platforms. The initiative is anticipated to improve readiness and cost-efficiency in critical areas of India's defence infrastructure.
