DefExpo-18 concludes on a grand note

Chennai: The 10th edition of Defexpo India, a biennial exhibition on land, naval and Internal Homeland Security Systems, concluded at Thiruvidanthai in Kancheepuram district, with the Indian military displaying its might with a live demonstration of its various aircraft, helicopter, battle tanks and submarines.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit presided over the valedictory, which was also attended by Secretary (Defence Production) Dr Ajay Kumar, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Chairman and Managing Director T Suvarna Raju, Additional Secretary (Defence Production) Subhash Chandra and District Collector P Ponniah.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor congratulated the Ministry of Defence for having successfully organised the DefExpo, attracting a large number of Indian and foreign exhibitors. On the concluding day on Saturday, very large crowd turned up making the event a grand success.

Enthusiasm was also evident among organised groups from schools and colleges and visiting youth who were curious and showing keen interest in defence technology, an official release said. On the side lines of the DefExpo, indigenously designed and built Indian Naval ships Sahydari -- a stealth frigate, Kamorta - anti submarine warfare corvette, Sumitra, a naval advanced offshore patrol vessel, Airavat - an amphibious ship and Kirch - a missile corvette - were opened for visitors at Chennai Port for the first time. 

The ships visit witnessed overwhelming response from the people of Chennai and adjoining districts. The DefExpo witnessed four-days of hectic activities which underlined the theme of 'India: The Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub' showcasing India's capability in export of defence systems and components. More than 670 exhibitors, including over 150 international exhibitors, took part in the event. The MSME sector had representation of around 15 per cent.