With more than 30,000 people employed in various defence and related sub-segments, the Telangana government is working towards transforming Hyderabad into a defence electronics hub.

“Over the years, defence-related organisations such as BDL, DMRL, DRDO and over 1,000 SMEs have been playing a vital role in the country’s defence manufacturing. We believe it is time to promote Hyderabad and its surroundings as the next defence electronics hub,” Kalvakuntla Taraka Rama Rao, State Minister for IT, Commerce and Industries, said.

Inaugurating the Kalyani Rafael Advanced Systems facility, Rao said, “Under the Make in Telangana campaign and the proactive and pro-business policies of the government, Telangana has today become the go-to destination for defence and aerospace companies. Some of the marquee names in this sector have set up their units in our state.”

“The fact that Kalyani group and Rafael have chosen to set up their Advanced Systems facility in Hyderabad is a strong testimonial to our efforts. This joint venture will bring cutting-edge manufacturing to our state, and add to our premier position in the defence and aerospace sector,” Rao said.

The state has already facilitated in development of three aerospace parks and there is growing interest among investors to set up manufacturing units in the state, which is aided by the industry-friendly policy TSiPass and the top ranking in ease of doing business, he said.

Referring to already existing manufacturing facilities in Telangana, Rao said, “Did you know that the US President Donald Trump’s helicopter cabin made by Sikorsky is in fact made at a facility adjacent to this one?”

For the new state, the supporting environment and the new industrial policy has provided fresh impetus. The TSiPass has been a clincher, he said.

With facilities for self-certification when company applies for permissions to set up a unit, and deemed clearance if the approval is not received within 15 days and a fine of ₹1,000 on officers who delay clearances, have all made a mark. More than 1,000 SMEs play a role in the defence sector and it is heartening to know that some of the inputs for the French nuclear submarine Scorpene are supplied from a facility near Hyderabad. “In the next phase of growth, we are keen to transform Hyderabad as a defence electronics hub,” he said.