India and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a joint Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and Satellite Laboratory in India.
The Indo-Russia Innopraktika Technology Hub signed the agreement with Indian academic institutions. The partners include Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU) Foundation in Kanpur and Kalam SPS Research Centre. Russia’s Geoscan Group also joined the collaboration.
The lab will focus on research and development in drone technology and satellite systems. It will offer certification courses in drones and satellites for students and engineers. The facility aims to build skills in aerospace innovation and support practical training.
Officials described the MoU as a step to strengthen technology ties between the two countries. The lab will serve as a centre for joint work on UAV design, satellite applications, and related fields.
The project will start at CSJMU in Kanpur. It plans to create modern facilities for testing, research, and education in unmanned systems and space technology.
This agreement adds to the long-standing defence and technology partnership between India and Russia. The two nations already work together on projects such as the BrahMos missile and space cooperation through ISRO and Roscosmos.
The new lab supports India’s push for self-reliance in critical technologies. It will help develop local expertise in drones, which are used for defence, agriculture, disaster management, and mapping. It also aims to advance satellite-related research for communication, navigation, and earth observation.
The UAV and satellite sector is growing fast in India. The government wants to build a strong domestic industry and reduce dependence on imports. This collaboration with Russia brings technical knowledge and helps train the next generation of engineers in these important areas.
