Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation is excited about the opportunities that are opening up in the defence sector in India with many acquisitions happening. Eaton has announced a sales target of $500 million in India by the end of 2015, which would triple its current revenue in the country. The business drivers would be its aerospace, electrical and automotive component segments, all having high growth potential. Considering the enormous business opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region, Eaton is increasing its presence in India. In an interview with SP’s Airbuz team, Eaton Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Alexander M.Cutler outlines the road-map in India.

SP’s M.A.I. (SP’s): Could you tell us about your aerospace business in India and how it is growing?

Alexander Cutler (Cutler): Eaton began operations in India in 1999 through the global acquisition of Aeroquip Vickers. We are basically into four aerospace product solutions – hydraulic, pneumatic, fuel and electrical systems. A substantial number of commercial and military aircraft in India are powered by Eaton solutions.

SP’s: What programmes are you associated with in the Indian defence sector?

Cutler: The defence acquisitions by India are garnering the attention of the world. The focus now is on the medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) and other programmes and Eaton will be on most of these platforms. Eaton solutions are well represented on the fighter aircraft that are coming from the US and European contenders.

SP’s: Could you spell out your expansion plans in India, any mergers and acquisitions (M&As) in the aerospace business?

Cutler: Eaton continues to grow both in an organic and inorganic way. We have always have some M&As in the pipleline. Importantly, we will expand our presence in India, both on the sales and the R&D fronts. The integrated R&D Centre in Kharadi, Pune, will add 200 employees to its engineering and other professional services work.

Earlier in the day (April 4), Cutler inaugurated the Technology Day at the Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi, showcasing leading solutions, technologies and capabilities that make electrical, hydraulic and mechanical power operate more efficiently, effectively, safely and sustainably.