Belagavi (Karnataka) , Mar 6 (UNI) Magellan Aerospace Corporation and Aequs Private Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore the establishment of 50/50 jointly-owned aerospace sand casting facility in the Belagavi Aerospace Cluster (BAC).
The proposed facility aims to address the rising demand for sand castings in the aerospace industry, catering to both commercial and defence sectors. Given India’s limited aerospace-qualified NADCAP sand casting facilities, this initiative is expected to enhance the region’s sand casting capabilities and bolster the aerospace ecosystem in Southeast Asia.
Magellan Aerospace, a recognised centre of excellence for sand castings in North America, brings its expertise in the chemically bonded sand process, which enables the production of complex geometries. The company also employs cutting-edge technologies such as 3D sand printing, robotics, digital radiography, and automated differential pressure bottom pouring, ensuring precision and efficiency in manufacturing.
India’s aerospace sector has witnessed rapid growth, driven by initiatives like Make in India and the UDAN scheme, coupled with increasing private sector investments and rising air traffic. This joint venture is expected to contribute significantly to the expansion of aerospace manufacturing in the country.
This is not the first collaboration between Magellan and Aequs. In 2007, the two companies established Aerospace Processing India (API), India’s first third-party surface treatment facility approved by Airbus and Boeing. More recently, in 2024, they signed an MoU to explore the development of a joint aircraft engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in Karnataka.
Commenting on the partnership, Aravind Melligeri, Chairman & CEO of Aequs, said that the venture aligns with Aequs’ vision of world-class manufacturing and will reinforce the company’s vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities at BAC. He also highlighted the advancements in sand casting technology, which will enable the production of lightweight and durable aerospace components.
Phillip Underwood, President & CEO of Magellan Aerospace, stated that the partnership would enhance infrastructure, cost efficiencies, and production capacity, reinforcing Magellan’s commitment to expanding aerospace casting capabilities in India.
He added that the facility would provide cost-effective and high-quality solutions to the global aerospace market.
