Rockwell Collins and Zen Technologies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to combine their strengths in simulation and training to offer industry-leading, high fidelity solutions to Indian military customers.

Rockwell Collins, based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with facilities in Hyderabad and near New Delhi, provides world-class aviation simulation and training products, systems and integration solutions. Zen Technologies, based in Hyderabad, specialises in supplying industry-leading ground military simulation and training solutions.

“Our relationship with Zen Technologies will open up avenues to further extend our reach in the Indian defence market, and allows Rockwell Collins to offer superior end-to-end solutions that militaries utilise throughout the world,” said LeAnn Ridgeway, Vice President and General Manager, Simulation & Training Solutions for Rockwell Collins. “Combining the strengths of our two companies will provide Indian military customers with air and ground solutions that will better prepare their soldiers and airmen to successfully complete missions.”

Jim Walker, Vice President and Managing Director of Asia-Pacific for Rockwell Collins, said that India is a very promising market for the aerospace and defence sector. “We want to work closely with the industry to ensure they have easy access to innovative solutions,” said Walker. “We are here for the long-term and through this partnership we want to develop locally, and market directly, advanced solutions and services for India. We will continue to invest in India through steady growth, strategic partnerships and by strengthening existing customer relations.”

The announcement coincides with the recent launch of the ‘Make in India’ campaign, which is aimed at enhancing the country’s prominence in global manufacturing while creating jobs by increasing the flow of new technology and capital. The MoU also marks the first time that a global simulator original equipment manufacturer has partnered with an Indian simulator manufacturing company to cater to the Indian defence market.

“We are delighted to enter into the flight simulation segment by virtue of our alliance with a renowned and leading organisation like Rockwell Collins. Zen Technologies has over the years emerged as a strong force in the field of land forces simulation in India and we are very optimistic that through this alliance we will be able to fill the gap in our capabilities to serve the burgeoning need of the flight simulation market in India,” said Zen Technologies President A. Kishore Dutt. “With Rockwell Collins’ global footprint, Zen Technologies will be able to access new markets. This is a perfect fit.”