25 Indian companies to showcase aerospace products at ILA Berlin Air Show 2008

Berlin: India will showcase aerospace products from 25 Indian companies at this year's ILA Berlin air show, where it has been given the honour of being a partner nation. European aerospace companies are likely to woo India as a valued customer thanks to its booming aviation sector, as well as expanded defence contracts.

The biennial event, a prestigious show for Germany, showcases jet fighters, electronic gadgetry and other gear is to be held at Schoenefeld Airport from May 27 to June 1. The last ILA in 2006 had more than 1,000 firms from 42 nations exhibiting.

Schoenefeld is currently being redeveloped as Berlin's main international airport.

German defence minister, Franz Josef Jung, had invited India's participation and ensured a joint stand for its companies.

Indian defence minister, AK Antony, has informed minister Jung that this renowned air show would not only offer Indian aerospace industry a chance to showcase its products but also to negotiate new business, organizers said Thursday.

Thomas Enders, president of the BDLI German aerospace industry federation, noted that India offered European exporters opportunities with its annual growth rates of 10 per cent over the next five years.

A study by Enders' company, Airbus, has estimated India will purchase more than 900 aircraft seating more than 100 passengers by the year 2025.