Rayalaseema Set to Emerge as India’s Defence Hub

Rayalaseema is heading towards a major industrial transformation as Andhra Pradesh positions the region as a key hub for defence , aerospace , and drone manufacturing. Already emerging as a leader in renewable energy and horticulture, the region is now set to attract massive investments in advanced technology sectors.

A significant milestone will be marked at Puttaparthi in Sri Sathya Sai district, where Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will lay the foundation stone for the prestigious AMCA project.

The ₹15,803 crore project, jointly developed by DRDO and the Aeronautical Development Agency, will be established across nearly 650 acres . The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme is India’s first indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter jet initiative and is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening the country’s defence capabilities.

The facility will focus on aircraft integration, testing and advanced aviation systems while generating around 7,500 jobs directly. Officials believe the project could also attract nearly ₹1 lakh crore in future investments through ancillary industries and supporting infrastructure.

Alongside the AMCA project, foundation stones will also be laid for 12 mega projects across Rayalaseema and Prakasam district. These include defence manufacturing units and drone production facilities involving investments of ₹4,145 crore , with employment opportunities for over 6,000 people.

Kurnool is being developed as a dedicated drone manufacturing hub, while defence-related industries are also planned in Madakasira, Donakonda and Nellore. Companies such as Kalyani Strategic Systems, Bharat Dynamics Limited, HFCL and Premier Explosives are expected to establish units in the region.

Officials say the projects will boost employment , strengthen the regional economy , and transform Rayalaseema into one of India’s fastest-growing defence manufacturing corridors.