SDAL Invests USD 1.4B to Expand DeepTech Defense Manufacturing

Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL) is investing USD 1.4 billion to expand DeepTech Defense Manufacturing in India, marking one of the largest private sector moves in the country’s military technology sector.

The company announced plans to build advanced facilities focused on drones, robotics, and autonomous defense systems, strengthening India’s push for local production of critical defense technologies.

The investment will support a large manufacturing hub at the MIHAN Special Economic Zone in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The facility is expected to become a key center for producing next-generation unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and military robotics systems. SDAL plans to manufacture up to 10,000 drones annually along with around 1,000 robotics units each year, targeting both domestic defense requirements and export opportunities.

Also Read: Smart Manufacturing: From Connected Units to Cognitive Businesses

"This INR 12,780 crore investment represents our commitment to position India as as a global hub for autonomous systems and next-generation robotics," said Satyanarayan Nuwal, chairman of Solar Group, adding that the facility will produce advanced UAVs, humanoid and quadruped robots for both defence and industrial application.

According to the company, the project will be rolled out over the next few years and will focus on developing technologies linked to AI-enabled warfare systems, autonomous platforms, and smart surveillance tools. This initiative also aligns with India’s broader strategy to strengthen DeepTech Defense Manufacturing and reduce reliance on imported military equipment.

The planned investment will also support research and development efforts in advanced sensors, control systems, and drone technologies, areas that remain heavily dependent on foreign suppliers. By building these capabilities locally, SDAL aims to create a stronger domestic defense supply chain.

The project is expected to generate significant employment and attract additional technology partners to the region. With India rapidly expanding its defense manufacturing ecosystem, large private investments like this signal growing confidence in the country’s ability to become a global hub for high-tech defense production.