New Delhi, March 21: India’s defense and aerospace electronics company, Samtel Avionics, has announced plans to expand into indigenous combat drone manufacturing and space technology. The company aims to invest over ₹200 crores in developing homegrown drones. This strategic move is designed to enhance indigenous defense and aerospace innovation in India.
During the National Defense Industries Conclave 2026, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the need for a self-reliant drone manufacturing ecosystem. He advocated for systems that ensure complete autonomy in defense capabilities. Based on contributions from indigenous platforms like Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) and Light Combat Helicopters, the company has decided to establish dedicated units for unmanned systems, drones, and counter-drone technologies. Additionally, work will commence on low Earth orbit satellite solutions.
Highlighting the government’s inspiring initiatives, the company noted that this expansion in the drone sector comes at a time when India’s defense framework is rapidly moving towards self-sufficiency. The Ministry of Defense has also called for increased collaboration with the private sector, MSMEs, and startups. Punit Kaura, CEO and Managing Director of Samtel Avionics, announced the establishment of a dedicated drone division during the final day of the National Defense Industries Conclave 2026 in New Delhi. This division will focus on developing fully indigenous platforms based on its intellectual property rights.
Kaura stated that, as emphasized by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, building self-reliant capabilities in unmanned systems is now a necessity rather than an option. The action plan includes developing drones capable of long-duration flights and establishing robust maintenance, repair, and overhaul infrastructure. This initiative will provide long-term benefits to India’s defense system. The company will also develop a comprehensive life cycle support system to ensure the functionality and reliability of the drone platforms.
Furthermore, Samtel is strengthening its presence in the space sector, working on the development of low Earth orbit and small satellites. The company is also exploring opportunities in emerging areas like space situational awareness and space debris management. It is anticipated that the company’s first space program will commence in the coming months.
Kaura remarked that India’s defense and aerospace sector is at a critical juncture, focusing on developing indigenous capabilities and strengthening the domestic industrial base. He noted that collaboration among industry, MSMEs, and innovation-driven entities will play a decisive role in achieving self-reliance. With this strategic expansion, the goal is to develop a robust framework that capitalizes on new opportunities in both domestic and international markets.
With nearly 50 years of experience, this institution has become a leading provider of advanced electronic systems for the country’s avionics defense, aerospace, and railway sectors. Now, it is rapidly expanding into new areas such as unmanned systems and space technology, keeping in mind the needs of the armed forces and future requirements.
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