The Maharashtra Airport Development Corporation (MADC) has approved 220 acres in the MIHAN Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for Solar Defence and Aerospace (SDAL)’s ambitious Rs 127 billion project, expected to create around 7,675 jobs and strengthen Maharashtra’s aerospace and defence sector.

The project includes a primary initiative for advanced aerospace manufacturing and a separate venture focused on transport aircraft and defence equipment, projected to generate 875 additional employment opportunities. Together, these initiatives are set to bolster local economic growth, skill development, and technological innovation.

These developments follow a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the Maharashtra government during the World Economic Forum in Davos, highlighting the state’s push to attract high-value aerospace and defence investments.

The Solar Group, known for its expertise in defence explosives, including Pinaka rockets, plans to expand production to 155mm shells and is currently managing a Rs 150 billion defence order book with ongoing orders for hand grenades, UAVs, and other equipment.

Strategically located, the MIHAN-SEZ in Nagpur provides multi-modal connectivity via air, road, and rail, enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of SDAL’s manufacturing facilities. The project aligns with Maharashtra’s broader industrial strategy to promote high-tech investments, create jobs, and advance regional infrastructure.

The initiative is expected to foster public-private collaboration, innovation, and advanced technological research in defence and aerospace. It will also serve domestic requirements while positioning Maharashtra as a key player in the global defence supply chain.

The approval of 220 acres to SDAL marks a significant milestone in Maharashtra’s aerospace and defence ambitions, promising long-term benefits in industrial growth, socio-economic development, and technological advancement.

News source: EQ