Is Telangana Establishing a Drone Manufacturing and Testing Corridor?
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Synopsis
Telangana's ambition to become a leader in drone manufacturing is taking shape with the announcement of a new Drone Manufacturing and Testing Corridor. This initiative, revealed by Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu, aims to enhance the state's defence capabilities while creating job opportunities and attracting global investments.
Key Takeaways
- Telangana is creating a Drone Manufacturing and Testing Corridor.
- The initiative aims to enhance indigenous defence capabilities.
- The JSW UAV Facility will produce up to 300 drones annually.
- It is expected to create around 300 skilled jobs.
- Telangana aims to become a global leader in defence innovation.
Hyderabad, Dec 2 (NationPress) Telangana is gearing up to create a Drone Manufacturing and Testing Corridor aimed at enhancing its indigenous defence capabilities, as stated by State Minister for Information Technology and Industries Duddilla Sridhar Babu on Tuesday.
The state is striving to establish itself as the “Defence Strategic Hub of India” by cultivating a robust ecosystem for unmanned systems and advanced defence manufacturing.
The government is devising a detailed roadmap to elevate Telangana to a global leader in defence innovation, particularly in the domains of unmanned aerial systems, drone technology, and aerospace manufacturing.
Sridhar Babu delivered these remarks during the Bhoomi Pooja ceremony for the anticipated JSW Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Facility located at the Electronic Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) in Maheshwaram, situated on the outskirts of Hyderabad. This facility is being developed by JSW Defence in collaboration with Shield AI, with a significant investment of Rs 850 crore.
Highlighting the increasing significance of drones, satellites, cyber systems, and artificial intelligence in contemporary warfare, the Minister emphasized that achieving self-sufficiency in drone manufacturing is vital for national security in today's geopolitical climate.
He noted that India’s domestic defence UAV and drone market is expected to reach $4.4–5 billion by 2030, indicating that Telangana is poised to capitalize on this growth by establishing a world-class manufacturing and innovation ecosystem.
The Minister pointed out that the presence of global defence companies like Elbit Systems and Schiebel in Hyderabad signifies Telangana’s growing prominence in the defence and aerospace sector.
The forthcoming facility, which will span 16 acres, aims to produce up to 300 VBAT drones annually and is anticipated to commence operations by the end of next year.
This unit will feature integrated production, repair, and testing capabilities and is projected to create around 300 skilled jobs.
MLA Malreddy Ranga Reddy and senior officials were present at the ceremony.
Point of View
The establishment of a Drone Manufacturing and Testing Corridor in Telangana is a strategic move that aligns with India's vision for self-sufficiency in defence capabilities. This initiative not only aims to strengthen national security but also promises to create job opportunities and foster innovation in the aerospace sector. As we observe the global trends in defense technology, Telangana's proactive approach positions it as a significant player in the emerging market.
NationPress
02/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Drone Manufacturing and Testing Corridor in Telangana?
The corridor aims to enhance indigenous defence capabilities and establish Telangana as a key player in the drone manufacturing sector.
Who announced the establishment of the Drone Manufacturing and Testing Corridor?
The announcement was made by State Minister for Information Technology and Industries Duddilla Sridhar Babu.
What is the expected growth of India's domestic drone market?
India’s domestic defence UAV and drone market is projected to grow to $4.4–5 billion by 2030.
When is the JSW UAV Facility expected to commence operations?
The JSW UAV Facility is expected to begin operations by the end of next year.
How many jobs will the new facility create?
The facility is expected to generate around 300 skilled jobs.
