Tata Projects has entered into a strategic partnership with Canada-based MDS Aero Support Corporation to develop advanced aero-engine testing infrastructure in India.
The collaboration brings together Tata Projects’ infrastructure and engineering capabilities with MDS Aero’s expertise in gas turbine engine testing. The two companies will work towards supporting the development of testing infrastructure for India’s expanding aerospace and propulsion ecosystem.
Under the partnership, Tata Projects will undertake key infrastructure components of aero-engine test facilities. Its scope will include civil and structural works, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems, high-air-pressure systems, HVAC, high-temperature exhaust systems, cooling-water systems and associated site infrastructure.
MDS Aero will contribute specialised capabilities in the design, engineering, supply, integration and commissioning of advanced gas turbine engine test facilities and systems. Its scope will also cover lifecycle support for the testing infrastructure.
Rajiv Menon, President and Chief Growth and Strategy Officer, Tata Projects, said India’s aerospace ecosystem is moving into a new phase, with growing ambitions across aircraft manufacturing, propulsion, testing and advanced technologies. He noted that infrastructure supporting these capabilities will be an important part of this expansion.
Joe Hajjar, Chief Revenue Officer, MDS Aero Support Corporation, said the partnership combines local execution capabilities with global expertise in engine testing and would support the growth of India’s aerospace sector while strengthening aerospace and technology ties between Canada and India.
Founded in 1985, MDS Aero has delivered gas turbine engine testing projects across more than 27 countries. The company provides turnkey test capabilities for engine components and full engines across the aviation, defence and industrial sectors.
MDS Aero’s portfolio includes full-engine, core-engine and component test facilities, along with environmental simulation systems and specialised test equipment. The company also provides engineering, project management, commissioning and facility support services.
The partnership comes as India works to expand domestic capabilities across aircraft manufacturing, aero-engine development and propulsion technologies. The country is also pursuing the establishment of a National Aero Engine Test Complex through the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), with the proposed facility intended for testing complete engines and their subsystems.
Tata Projects already has experience in complex testing infrastructure through its work in India’s space sector, including engine testing facilities at Mahendragiri and a Tri-sonic Wind Tunnel at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.