Home / Business and Economy / Bearings Surge: Defence & Aerospace Fueling Growth
Bearings Surge: Defence & Aerospace Fueling Growth
24 Sep
Summary
- Two bearing stocks have seen gains up to 150% year-to-date in 2026.
- Defence and aerospace sectors are emerging as new growth avenues.
- NRB Bearings acquired Mahant Tool to enter aerospace and defence markets.
As of September 24, 2026, two Indian bearing stocks have experienced remarkable surges, with gains reaching up to 150% year-to-date. This significant growth is largely attributed to the expanding defence and aerospace sectors, which are becoming crucial new markets for bearing manufacturers.
NRB Bearings, a key player, is strategically pivoting from its core automotive business. The company aims to leverage its expertise in high-precision components for aerospace and defence applications. To expedite its entry into these specialized markets, NRB Bearings acquired Bengaluru-based Mahant Tool Room in January 2026 for ₹37.5 crore. This acquisition provides NRB Bearings with a pre-certified operational platform, which they plan to scale with significant investment to meet global demand for defence and aviation components.
Menon Bearings is also diversifying its portfolio beyond its traditional automotive base. The company is making inroads into the defence sector by supplying engine bearings and washers for US military vehicles through its customer Allison Transmission. Furthermore, Menon Bearings is developing precision components for the aerospace industry, including airport lighting parts and specialized wheel components for Honeywell. The company projects a revenue target of ₹360 crore for FY27 and aims for ₹500 crore within the next two to three years.
Both NRB Bearings and Menon Bearings have seen their valuations re-rate as they expand into non-automotive sectors. NRB Bearings has secured a ₹50 crore defence order book and targets ₹300 crore in aerospace revenue by FY31. Menon Bearings reported record quarterly financials in Q1FY27, with net profit rising 67.3%. The evolving landscape indicates a gradual shift for the bearing industry, with future growth heavily reliant on successful execution in these emerging sectors.
