Elbit Systems is promoting a range of helicopter-related products in a move that would tap the growing opportunities the company identified in the Indian market, both for foreign built, locally made or upgraded platforms. Over the years Elbit Systems has established a number of partnerships and cooperation in India, paving its way into many defense sector’s programs.
“Advanced avionic systems, particularly those related to helicopter modernization would fully comply for India’s needs “explains Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis, until recently the General Manager of Elbit Systems’ Land and C4I Division. Machlis said such systems could also include instrumented landing systems (for operating in brownout conditions), obstacle avoidance, sensor payloads, communications and networking, integrated cockpit and helmet displays, defensive aids and DIRCM, for which the company is actively promoting its new MUSIC system for military and civil applications. “The increase in India’s helicopter and transport aircraft fleets, both of domestic and foreign designs, ope
n significant opportunities for us, both for our partners and for us, as original system manufacturers (OEM). We expect our long-term cooperation with HAL, as well as other partnerships would fit well to this trend.” Machlis added.
Local cooperation is part of Elbit Systems DNA, and is also part of its activity in every strategic market, including India “We already have an excellent cooperation with HAL, providing training and simulation systems, other partnerships are underway in other areas.” Machlis told Vayu.
“Our portfolio is big and diversified and not necessarily suited for one partner that can cover all. We are evaluating different opportunities and structures of cooperation and partnerships.” Machlis added, saying, “Gaining market position is what we look for. Seated close to your customer, your partner can better understand the requirements, be more flexible and responsive for evaluation and testing, or addressing specific issues.” Machlis explained. Elbit Systems has recently established a partnership with Bharat Forge, addressing the manufacturing, modernization and support of artillery systems.
Machlis was recently nominated to become the president of Elbit Systems, beginning in the second quarter of 2013, succeding Joseph (Yossi) Ackerman who served in this position for the past 16 years.
