In a move to foster a thriving ecosystem for the aerospace and defence manufacturing industry in Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the Aerospace and Defense Policy 4.0 (2025–2030) at the Secretariat on Monday. The policy sets a bold target of attracting investments ranging from 50,000 crore to 1 lakh crore in the sector over the next five years to establish Andhra Pradesh as India’s premier aerospace and defence manufacturing hub.
The Chief Minister emphasised the need to position the state as a hub for advanced technologies and innovation in the aerospace and defence sectors. Citing India’s use of modern technology during Operation Sindoor, he underscored the growing role of technology in national defence. He also emphasised the importance of developing such technologies for both defence applications and improving daily lives.
Highlighting the future potential for national defence and internal security, he said the new policy should play a key role in facilitating the establishment of industries aligned with these priorities. He suggested several amendments to ensure national security remains a top focus. Aerospace and Defence Advisor Satish Reddy attended the review via video conference and offered suggestions.
QUALITY BENCHMARKS FOR MSME PRODUCTS
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of supporting MSMEs in this sector, noting that Andhra Pradesh should outperform other states in this regard. He proposed an annual 100 crore corpus fund and the inclusion of logistics subsidies in the new policy.
“MSMEs must be strengthened. There should be a benchmark for quality in allied industries. Value addition is essential, and marketing and branding are equally important. The vision of ‘One Family, One Entrepreneur’ must be realized,” he said.
CLUSTER-BASED INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT FOR REGIONS
The policy designates specialised manufacturing corridors across Andhra Pradesh: Visakhapatnam-Srikakulam for naval systems, Jaggaiahpet-Donakonda for missile production, Kurnool-Orvakal for drone technologies, and Lepakshi-Madakasira for aerospace electronics. Tirupati will emerge as an R&D powerhouse with the proposed DRDO Centre of Excellence.
Officials briefed him that Bharat Forge and MMW companies are preparing to invest in the Madakasira cluster, with the foundation stone to be laid soon.
23 COMPANIES INVEST RS 22,000 CRORE IN THE STATE
India’s annual defence product market is valued at 1.27 lakh crore, with public sector enterprises accounting for 73% of production. The private sector contributes 21%, while public-private partnerships account for the remaining 7%.
As of now, 23 companies have invested 22,000 crores in Andhra Pradesh’s aerospace and defence clusters, creating employment for 17,000 people.
Ministers Kondapalli Srinivas and TG Bharat attended the review meeting along with Commerce & Industries Secretary, Yuvraj.
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