text: With Aero India 2017 well underway, Defence Procurement Minister Harriett Baldwin is leading the UK delegation at the exhibition promoting UK and India partnerships and opportunities.
  Mrs Baldwin has joined 20 UK companies at the aerospace exhibition showcasing some of the most innovative technology in defence, aviation and security sectors. The visit is hoped to secure long-lasting industrial partnerships and joint ventures with Indian companies.
  Mrs Baldwin said: “The UK and India have much to offer one another in defence: from manufacturing collaboration and simplified export controls, to military cooperation, training and research partnerships.
  “As Britain steps up globally, we will work together with India to build knowledge, security and prosperity through a close industrial, military and economic partnership.”
  During her Mrs Baldwin met BAE Systems and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and was given a demonstration of the Advanced Hawk fast jet trainer, a collaboration between the two companies.
  The Advanced Hawk now enables training activities to be undertaken on the updated air platform, thus reducing training demands on more expensive frontline aircraft and creating additional capacity for operational tasks. The Hawk will also deliver fast jet training in a more cost-effective, structured and safer environment.
  After seeing at first hand the capabilities the Advanced Hawk offers, the Minister said: “The UK and India have so much to offer one another in defence and I’m delighted to be at Aero India to build this close relationship.
  “The joint development of the Advanced Hawk by BAE Systems and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is an outstanding example of what our defence industries can achieve together.
  “Indian companies like HAL have been building UK-designed aircraft for over 40 years, so we are building on a strong foundation.”
  Alan Garwood, Group Business Development Director, BAE Systems, added: “The Advanced Hawk is another demonstration of our commitment to Make-in-India and presents a unique opportunity to build on our track record of collaboration with HAL and Indian industry in developing technologies and capabilities. Advanced Hawk is a great example of Make in India, for India and Export from India.”