The Hindu Business Line : Global majors showcase latest military equipment

About 35 of the world's leading military equipment suppliers set up temporary shop at Pragati Maidan, the Capital's fair grounds, showcasing the latest in anti-aircraft guns, diesel engines, communication system, and defence clothing among others.

Defexpo 2006, which concluded on Friday, saw participation from over 400 companies, a 40 per cent increase over the previous one held in 2004.

With a number of international giants trying to woo the Indian market, the event saw delegations from the US, the UK, Russia, Italy, Sweden, and France push their products in the Indian market.

The exhibition, fourth in the series of biennial specialised land and naval systems exhibitions, is amongst Asia's largest defence exhibition. There was also a 29 per cent growth in the Indian private sector participation, 48 per cent increase in overseas participation and overall 35 per cent increase in net exhibition area.

In terms of size, the US pavilion was the largest followed by Israel. Participation by the US, Russia, Israel, the UK and Italy has seen a significant increase.

While the space booked by US' Lockheed Martin was the largest, the Indian private sector companies occupied almost half the total area.

Russia's Rosoboronexport State Corporation too showcased its entire exports products range.

The increased focus on the Indian market became evident by a statement made by the Vice-President, Business Development (India) of India of Lockheed Martin, Mr Orville Prins, when he said, "Lockheed Martin is optimistic about the Indian market for its products - the F-16 as well as C-130J Super Hercules. Air Force is extremely important for us and we hope that we get a chance to serve the IAF."

Eurocopter considers India as one of the biggest and important markets as Mr Norbert Ducrot, Vice-President Eurocopter, Sales (Asia), pointed out, "in 2006 our business focus in India would be to decisively increase our business platform by means of sales as well as by successful industrial deployment."

The strengthening of defence ties between India and the US was reflected in the enthusiasm exuded by the officials of the US companies taking part at the expo. Boeing, apart from being bullish on the Indian market, has been viewing India as a strategic market.