Ashish Rajvanshi, CEO of Adani Defence & Aerospace, emphasized Hyderabad’s growing significance, stating, “Hyderabad is going to be a buzzing centre for both missiles and unmanned capabilities for Adani Group.”
Adani’s ambitious plans include the production of long-range missiles, naval missiles, next-generation anti-radiation missiles, and Rudram-2 hypersonic missiles in Hyderabad. Rajvanshi revealed, “Unmanned systems for the ground and water is the next focus area for Adani group.” He further elaborated on their participation in the MAKE-2 program for the Indian Navy, emphasizing the development of an unmanned ground vehicle designed to ease infantry stress.
Turning to the missiles sector, Rajvanshi unveiled Adani’s plans to manufacture long-range missiles, naval missiles, next-generation anti-radiation missiles, and Rudram-2 hypersonic missiles in Hyderabad. The company is already in close collaboration with DRDO for the DCPP (development cum production partner) programme. Within an impressive 18-month timeframe, they have developed a world-class unmanned launched precision-guided missile.
Additionally, the company has commenced work on counter drone systems in Hyderabad, reflecting their commitment to cutting-edge defense technologies. This move not only solidifies Adani’s commitment to advancing defence capabilities but also positions Hyderabad as a pivotal player in the nation’s evolving defence landscape. The city’s transformation into a key weapons manufacturing hub seems imminent with the substantial investments and collaborative efforts underway.
A recent milestone in this venture was the unveiling of the Drishti 10 ‘Starliner,’ India’s first indigenously manufactured Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), by Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar. The event took place at Adani Aerospace Park in Hyderabad, emphasizing the city’s growing role in defense innovation. According to Adani Defence and Aerospace’s press release, the UAV is an advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform with 36 hours of endurance, a 450 kg payload capacity, and STANAG 4671 certification, allowing it to fly in both segregated and unsegregated airspace.Admiral R Hari Kumar hailed the occasion as transformative for India’s quest for self-reliance in ISR technology and maritime supremacy. Appreciating the Adani Group’s commitment to unmanned systems, he noted, “Adani Group has demonstrated its commitment to unmanned systems having worked systematically over the last many years to develop local capabilities not limited to manufacturing but sustenance through MRO.”
Jeet Adani, VP, Adani Enterprises, said the recent geopolitical events have reinforced the convergence of physical, informational and cognitive tactics underpinned by intelligence, information processing capabilities, use of unmanned systems and cyber systems for dissemination of information and disinformation.
“Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms across land, air and naval borders are a key priority for Adani which will help serve the needs of the Indian Armed forces and also place India on the global map for exports. We are proud to be able to serve the Indian Navy and their requirements,” Adani added.
Adani Defence and Aerospace, with capabilities in small arms, unmanned aerial vehicles, radars, defense electronics, avionics, tactical communication systems, and electro-optical systems, aims to contribute significantly to achieving self-reliance in the defense and security sector. The company’s relentless efforts are poised to position Hyderabad as a crucial hub in India’s defense manufacturing landscape.
This strategic collaboration between private entities and the defence sector PSUs marks a significant step towards enhancing India’s defence capabilities and fostering self-reliance in critical areas.
