Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is actively seeking the Union government’s support for an ambitious suite of defence and aerospace manufacturing initiatives designed to elevate the state into a leading role within India’s defence, aerospace, and renewable energy landscape. During a series of meetings with Union Ministers in New Delhi, Naidu outlined his comprehensive vision for transforming Andhra Pradesh into a pivotal player in these rapidly evolving sectors.
In a media briefing following his discussions, Naidu detailed several proposals that underline the potential of the state. Among his key propositions is the establishment of a missile and ammunition production centre located within the Jaggayyapeta–Dolakonda industrial cluster, which would utilize approximately 6,000 acres of land designated for industrial development. Additionally, he proposed the creation of a manufacturing facility for military and civilian aircraft, along with a focus on defence electronics, situated in the Lepakshi–Madakasira cluster.
Naidu further emphasized Andhra Pradesh’s strategic advantages in terms of location and resources. He revealed plans to develop a naval experimentation facility in the Visakhapatnam–Anakapalli area and a defence technology manufacturing hub in the Kurnool–Orvakal cluster. This hub is expected to concentrate on cutting-edge technologies such as drones, robotics, and advanced manufacturing components.
During his engagements, Naidu also put forth a request for the establishment of a Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Centre of Excellence at IIT Tirupati and expressed interest in hosting a military cantonment within the state. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reportedly responded favorably to these initiatives while also briefing Naidu on Operation Sindoor and the Centre’s strategic priorities in defence.
In a parallel move, Naidu appealed to Union Minister Jitendra Singh for the development of Andhra Pradesh as a national hub for space innovation. This vision entails the establishment of two dedicated Space Cities—one in proximity to the ISRO SHAR spaceport and another near Lepakshi—focused on satellite manufacturing and the development of launch vehicles.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed Andhra Pradesh’s commitment to becoming a hub for green energy. He highlighted the state’s ongoing development into a green energy power center with a promise of 24/7 renewable energy supply. Under the PM KUSUM scheme, the Centre has already sanctioned the production of 2,000 MW of solar energy for the state.
With a robust infrastructure, availability of a skilled workforce, and progressive policies, Naidu asserted that Andhra Pradesh is well-equipped to significantly contribute to the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, particularly in the realms of defence, aerospace, and renewable energy.
