Martin-Baker to Invest ₹380 Cr in Karnataka Manufacturing Unit

Martin-Baker proposes a ₹380-crore aircraft ejection seat manufacturing facility in Karnataka, expected to create over 500 skilled jobs and strengthen domestic defence production.

UK-based aerospace and defence equipment manufacturer Martin-Baker plans to invest ₹380 crore in Karnataka to establish a manufacturing facility for aircraft ejection seats, strengthening India's domestic defence manufacturing capabilities. The proposed facility is expected to generate more than 500 highly skilled jobs and support the development of local supply chains, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) operations.

Karnataka Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil announced the investment proposal on November 4, 2026, following a meeting with senior representatives of the company. Martin-Baker has requested 10 acres of land in the fifth phase of the Harohalli Industrial Area for setting up the manufacturing unit. The state government has indicated that it will facilitate the land allotment process at the earliest.

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Martin-Baker is internationally recognised for manufacturing ejection seats and aircrew safety systems for military aircraft. Its technology enables pilots to escape from aircraft during emergencies, making it an important component of military aviation safety. According to Patil, more than 900 Martin-Baker-manufactured ejection seats are currently in service across aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force and the Indian Naval Air Arm.

The proposed Karnataka facility is expected to strengthen India's indigenous production capabilities for specialised aerospace and defence equipment. It could also support the development of maintenance and overhaul infrastructure, reduce dependence on overseas supply chains and create opportunities for domestic component manufacturers and engineering service providers.

Alongside Martin-Baker's proposal, defence technology company Tonbo Imaging India Limited has also expressed interest in expanding its operations in Karnataka through two proposed facilities. The company has sought five acres in Bengaluru's Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR) to establish a High-Power Microwave (HPM) manufacturing facility. The proposed unit will focus on developing and manufacturing HPM systems and related technologies.

Tonbo Imaging has additionally requested 130 acres of land at Mulwada in Vijayapura district for a dedicated facility focused on testing, evaluation and demonstration of its technologies. The company specialises in electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems, thermal imaging equipment, advanced sensor technologies and autonomous defence systems.

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The discussions involved senior representatives from both companies and officials from the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board and Karnataka Udyog Mitra. The proposals reflect growing private-sector interest in the state's aerospace and defence manufacturing ecosystem.

Karnataka has been working to attract investments across aerospace, defence electronics, advanced manufacturing and related technologies. The proposed projects could expand industrial activity beyond Bengaluru and create specialised employment opportunities in other districts.