Saudi Arabia is discussing pursuing joint manufacturing initiatives with Airbus Helicopters as part of its broader strategy to localize advanced aviation technologies and strengthen its domestic aerospace sector.

The talks took place during “Industrial Day” at Airbus Helicopters’ headquarters in Marignane, France. The event was attended by Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef, Airbus executives, Saudi aviation suppliers, and members of the company’s global partner network.

افتتحت فعالية “Industrial Day” المنعقدة في مقر @AirbusHeli، بمشاركة مورّدي الشركة، ونخبة من الموردين السعوديين لصناعة الطيران، وأكدت خلالها أهمية توطين التقنية، وتعزيز الشراكة الدولية، والاستفادة من مقومات المملكة ومواردها المعدنية، لتصبح مركزاً محورياً لصناعة الطيران. pic.twitter.com/8hPtlEFsr4

— بندر إبراهيم الخريف Bandar Alkhorayef (@BAlkhorayef) May 5, 2025

The visit marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to position itself as a global aerospace hub under its Vision 2030 economic diversification plan.

The Saudi delegation met with Airbus Helicopters CEO Bruno Even, toured the company’s manufacturing facilities, and explored collaboration opportunities in helicopter production and related technologies.

Alkhorayef emphasized the strategic importance of the aviation sector, describing it as “one of the most promising advanced sectors for localizing capabilities and developing high-value technologies.”

He added that Saudi Arabia aims to build a competitive manufacturing base, driven by industrial partnerships and foreign investment. The Kingdom’s strengths include its mineral resources, energy reserves, skilled workforce, and supportive business environment.

Saudi Arabia’s aerospace strategy includes localizing helicopter production, advancing unmanned aerial vehicles, and expanding maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. The market for these capabilities is projected to exceed $10 billion.

According to the ministry, the aerospace sector is expected to contribute $88 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP and support over 377,000 jobs by 2035. Airbus Helicopters executives expressed interest in strengthening collaboration in assembly, aviation maintenance, and innovation in rotorcraft technology. Discussions also covered technology transfer and industrial training to support the Kingdom’s goal of becoming a regional aerospace center.

The Saudi delegation, including National Industrial Development Center CEO Saleh Al-Sulomi, was visiting France as part of a broader effort to enhance cooperation in mining, aviation, and industrial development.

Alkhorayef noted that the Kingdom’s long-term goal is to “diversify its economy by accelerating the growth of high-tech industries and integrating into global manufacturing value chains.”