Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu stated that the state is poised to emerge as a strong defence shield for the nation with the establishment of multiple defence manufacturing and aerospace projects across the state. He made these remarks during the foundation stone laying ceremony for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) Integration and Flight-Testing Project in Puttaparthi.
The Chief Minister said the AMCA initiative, being developed under the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), will significantly contribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” by strengthening India’s indigenous defence capabilities. Along with Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Naidu laid the foundation stones for several key defence manufacturing projects in Andhra Pradesh.
The projects include facilities by Bharat Dynamics Limited, Agneyastra Energetics under Kalyani Strategic Systems, HFCL, and multiple drone manufacturing companies under the proposed Drone City at Orvakal. The Chief Minister highlighted that the AMCA project alone is expected to attract investments of over ₹15,000 crore and generate nearly 7,500 employment opportunities.
Naidu noted that Rayalaseema is rapidly transforming from a drought-prone region into a growth engine for the state. With the launch of the AMCA project, Puttaparthi is expected to evolve into a strategic defence hub of national importance. He added that Andhra Pradesh is building an integrated ecosystem spanning aerospace, defence manufacturing, drones, electronics, and space technology.
Emphasising the growing role of drones and advanced technologies in modern warfare, the Chief Minister said Andhra Pradesh is committed to becoming a national hub for aerospace and defence innovation. He also pointed out that drones used during Operation Sindoor were manufactured and tested in Andhra Pradesh, showcasing the state’s emerging defence manufacturing capabilities.
The Chief Minister further outlined the state’s long-term vision, positioning Sriharikota as a centre for space technology, Nagayalanka for missile systems, Puttaparthi for defence and aerospace, and Visakhapatnam as a major naval and industrial hub. Together, these initiatives are expected to transform Andhra Pradesh into one of India’s leading defence and advanced technology destinations.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the AMCA project as a historic milestone for India’s defence sector and appreciated Andhra Pradesh’s proactive efforts in attracting defence and aerospace investments. He stated that the project would place India among a select group of nations possessing advanced fighter aircraft integration and testing capabilities.
