Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL), a key subsidiary of the Solar Group, has announced a major investment of over ₹12,800 crore in advanced defence manufacturing projects. The initiative focuses on building India’s first deep-tech facility dedicated to robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and related technologies.
The company revealed plans to set up a large-scale manufacturing complex in Nagpur, Maharashtra, with the capacity to produce 10,000 drones and 1,000 robots annually. The facility will develop UAVs of various sizes and types, including medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) drones, along with long-range missiles and other AI-powered systems. The investment is expected to roll out over the next three to four years, though the overall project aligns with Maharashtra’s Mega Project and Thrust policy spanning up to 10 years.
The announcement came during the Bhoomipujan (ground-breaking) ceremony for the Robotics and UAV facility at the MIHAN Special Economic Zone. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis attended the event and praised the project as a milestone for India’s defence self-reliance. Gadkari highlighted the vital role of technology and drones in modern defence, while Fadnavis noted that the facility positions Nagpur as a key hub for deep-tech innovation.
Solar Group Chairman Satyanarayan Nuwal said the investment would strengthen India’s strategic capabilities through indigenous production of advanced systems. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs and support the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by reducing dependence on imports for critical defence technologies.
This development reflects growing private sector participation in India’s defence ecosystem, especially in emerging areas like AI-driven drones and robotics, which are crucial for future warfare and surveillance needs.
