Mumbai: India’s growing focus on indigenous defence manufacturing has found a new anchor in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, where the government has committed to developing the region into a national hub for drone technology. The announcement came alongside the recent inauguration of an advanced night vision facility in Nimmaluru, Krishna District, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Built by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) at a cost of ₹360 crore, the factory is designed to produce electro-optical systems including night vision devices, infrared missile seekers and drone guard systems — all intended for both domestic use and export markets.
“Through the drone industry, several new sectors linked to futuristic technologies will emerge in Kurnool and across Andhra,” the Prime Minister said. He also cited the success of drones in Operation Sindoor, a recent military exercise that showcased India’s homegrown capabilities in unmanned aerial systems. The reference was not incidental, it underscored the strategic importance of drones in modern warfare and the government’s intent to position Kurnool as a key player in this evolving landscape.
The decision to invest in drone infrastructure in Kurnool is closely tied to India’s broader push for self-reliance in defence. Over the past five years, the country has steadily increased its defence exports, which reached $2.6 billion in FY2025 according to data from the Ministry of Defence. Facilities like the one in Nimmaluru are expected to accelerate this trend by enabling the production of high-value components that meet international standards. The factory’s flexible production lines and capacity for future upgrades suggest a long-term vision that goes beyond immediate procurement needs.
Kurnool’s emergence as a drone hub also reflects a shift in how India is approaching regional development. By locating advanced manufacturing in smaller cities, the government aims to decentralise industrial growth and create skilled employment outside traditional urban centres. The BEL facility is projected to generate hundreds of jobs over the next two to three years, with additional opportunities likely to arise as the drone ecosystem expands.
While the strategic and economic rationale is clear, the success of Kurnool’s drone ambitions will depend on sustained investment, regulatory support and collaboration with private industry. The integration of drone technology into India’s defence exports offers a promising avenue for growth, but it also demands rigorous quality control and alignment with global standards. As India seeks to strengthen its position in the international defence market, hubs like Kurnool will play a critical role in translating policy into performance. The groundwork has been laid, now the challenge is to build on it.
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