To enhance India’s capabilities in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), loitering munitions, and counter-drone systems, a state-of-the-art composite manufacturing facility was launched on January 11 at Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL), subsidiary of Solar Industries in Nagpur. This facility marks a significant advancement in India’s efforts to achieve strategic self-reliance in defence, with a focus on utilizing advanced composite materials.
With an investment of Rs 10,000 crore planned over the next decade, the facility is capable of producing up to 1,000 loitering munitions each year. Solar Industries has already made a notable impact by developing Nagastra-1, India’s first indigenous loitering munition, which has recently been procured by the Indian Army. Additionally, the company is moving toward the manufacturing of MALE (Medium Altitude Long Endurance) UAVs, which will feature advanced surveillance and attack capabilities.
Composite materials, known for their lightweight, high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and adaptability, are revolutionizing the aerospace, defence, and automotive industries. These materials are crucial for manufacturing drones, UAVs, and other advanced systems in defence applications.
“Producing composite materials and components requires precision machinery, climate-controlled environments, and skilled expertise to ensure consistency and accuracy,” Solar Industries highlighted in a statement.
Key Achievements and Infrastructure Highlights
Indigenous Loiter Munition – Nagastra-1
Developed and manufactured at the new facility, Nagastra-1 offers cutting-edge features such as GPS-enabled precision strikes and reusable soft-landing capabilities. Solar Industries has already delivered 480 units to the Indian Army under an emergency procurement contract. Advanced variants like Nagastra-2 and Nagastra-3, with enhanced performance, are currently under development.
Advanced UAV Development
Solar Industries is working on MALE UAVs designed for both military and civilian applications. These UAVs, equipped with surveillance and attack capabilities, will significantly bolster India’s operational flexibility.
High Production Capacity
The facility is designed to manufacture up to 1,000 loiter munitions annually, with further expansion planned. Additionally, the facility houses infrastructure for performance testing and environmental qualification of indigenously developed loiter munitions.
Runway for UAV Testing
A dedicated 1.25 km-long and 40 m-wide runway for MALE UAV testing is nearing completion, showcasing the facility’s capability to support full-scale operations.
Strategic Investment
Solar Industries’ Rs10,000 crore investment over the next decade underscores its commitment to strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Significance for India’s Defence and Strategic Autonomy
The establishment of this facility aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, reducing dependence on imports and strengthening India’s defence capabilities. Key advantages include:
- Enhanced Strategic Autonomy: Indigenous production of drones and UAVs reduces reliance on foreign suppliers.
- Combat-Ready Solutions: With precision strike capabilities and kamikaze mode, Nagastra-1 is a force multiplier for the Indian Army.
- Rapid Scalability: The robust manufacturing base ensures India’s readiness to ramp up production in emergencies.
- Technological Superiority: Advanced UAVs and loiter munitions provide cutting-edge capabilities for military operations.
- Export Potential: The facility’s capacity positions India as a global hub for defence exports, fostering economic growth.
Shaping India’s Defence Future
The launch of this composite manufacturing facility signals a paradigm shift in India’s defence preparedness. As drone technology evolves and demand for UAVs grows, the ability to develop, manufacture, and scale these systems domestically will be pivotal in positioning India as a global leader in defence technology.
Nagpur’s emergence as a hub for weaponized drones and advanced systems underscores India’s commitment to achieving strategic autonomy. With visionary leadership, significant investment, and state-of-the-art infrastructure, the country is poised to redefine its role in the global defence landscape.
Team BharatShakti
