Which Adani Group Company is Focused on Defence and Drone Products?

The defence and drone sectors have emerged as some of the most dynamic industries in the Indian market, drawing significant attention from investors and policymakers alike. Among India’s major conglomerates, the Adani Group has swiftly positioned itself as a key player in these sectors, leveraging strategic investments, partnerships, and acquisitions to enhance indigenous capabilities.

This article explores the role of Adani Enterprises and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) in advancing India’s defence manufacturing and drone technology.

Adani Enterprises: Driving Defence and Drone Innovation

A Diversified Defence Portfolio

Adani Enterprises Ltd (AEL), the flagship company of the Adani Group, operates across multiple industries, including airports, data centres, agro-products, and, crucially, the defence and aerospace sectors.

Through its subsidiary, Adani Defence and Aerospace, the company has made significant strides in manufacturing military equipment and drones, contributing to India’s defence self-reliance.

Strengthening India’s Defence Capabilities

Adani Defence and Aerospace plays a critical role in India’s defence production through its diverse portfolio, which includes:

• Fighter aircraft and helicopters
• Unmanned aerial systems (UAS)
• Missiles and artillery systems
• Small arms and ammunition manufacturing

One of the company’s most notable initiatives is its collaboration with the UAE-based EDGE Group, a global leader in defence technology. This partnership aims to develop advanced defence solutions, including loitering munitions, counter-drone systems, and electronic warfare technology, targeting both domestic and international markets.

Strategic Collaborations for Indigenous Manufacturing

Further reinforcing India’s defence manufacturing capabilities, Adani Defence & Aerospace has partnered with Thales Group to locally manufacture 70mm rockets. These rockets will be used in the HAL Rudra and Prachand helicopters, vital assets in India’s military fleet.

The HAL Rudra, an armed version of the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter, is equipped with missiles, rockets, and cannons, while the HAL Prachand, designed for high-altitude warfare, also relies on advanced weaponry. The localisation of rocket production ensures a steady supply and strengthens the operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces.

Leading the Way in Drone Technology

Adani Defence and Aerospace is at the forefront of India’s drone technology advancements. A standout innovation is the Drishti 10 Starliner UAV, a cutting-edge intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platform with:

• 36-hour endurance
• 450 kg payload capacity
• STANAG 4671 certification (allowing operations in segregated and unsegregated airspace)

In addition to manufacturing, Adani is acquiring advanced drone technology firms in Bengaluru and Hyderabad to bolster its unmanned systems portfolio. These acquisitions are expected to accelerate Adani’s expansion into remote reconnaissance and counter-drone operations, particularly for military applications.

Investments in Defence Infrastructure

Adani’s commitment to defence self-reliance is further reflected in its investments in critical infrastructure, including:

• Kanpur Ammunition Factory: A ₹30 billion facility, the largest of its kind in South Asia, supporting India’s domestic ammunition and missile production.
• Telangana Counter-Drone and Missile Facility: A ₹10 billion investment dedicated to producing advanced counter-drone and missile systems.

These projects align with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, reducing dependence on foreign defence imports and boosting indigenous capabilities.

Adani Ports: Enhancing Defence Logistics and Manufacturing

Strategic Role in Defence Logistics

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), India’s largest private-sector port operator, is increasingly contributing to India’s defence sector. With 15 ports and terminals across India, along with ownership of Haifa Port in Israel, APSEZ is strategically positioned to support defence logistics and trade.

Investment in Propellant Production

APSEZ has entered the defence manufacturing space through a ₹35 billion investment in a propellant production facility in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh. This facility plays a crucial role in enhancing India’s missile and ammunition production capabilities, furthering the nation’s goal of reducing defence imports and boosting indigenous manufacturing.

Expanding into Small Arms Manufacturing

APSEZ is also investing in a small arms manufacturing facility in Madhya Pradesh, contributing to India’s domestic production of firearms and ammunition. This initiative strengthens India’s ability to supply its defence forces with locally produced equipment, reducing reliance on foreign imports.

Conclusion: Adani’s Growing Influence in Defence and Aerospace

Through Adani Enterprises and Adani Ports, the Adani Group is playing a significant role in strengthening India’s defence and drone manufacturing capabilities. By investing in advanced military technology, strategic partnerships, and indigenous production, Adani is not only supporting India’s self-reliance goals but also positioning itself as a global player in defence exports.

With ongoing acquisitions, research, and infrastructure development, Adani’s influence in India’s defence and aerospace sectors is expected to grow, further solidifying the country’s status as an emerging force in global defence manufacturing.

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