The Adani Group has announced plans to invest ₹1.8 lakh crore in India’s defence manufacturing sector over the next year, with a strong focus on AI-powered drones, autonomous systems, and advanced guided weapons designed for future warfare.
According to a PTI report, military hardware developed by the group has already been deployed in key operations, including Operation Sindoor in 2025.
Focus Areas of Investment
The investment will be routed through Adani Defence and Aerospace, which plans to strengthen capabilities in:
- Unmanned and autonomous systems across air, land, and sea
- AI-enabled multi-domain operations
- Advanced sensors and electronics
- Precision-guided weapons and missile systems
- Large-scale MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) and training infrastructure
Adani Systems Inducted Across All Three Services
Adani Defence has emerged as one of India’s largest integrated private-sector defence manufacturers, with several of its systems inducted into the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Drones for Navy and Army: In 2025, Drishti-10 UAVs were inducted for long-range intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
- Counter-Drone Systems: Adani’s counter-drone solutions have successfully cleared trials conducted by all three services.
- Guided Weapons: The Agnika loitering munitions have demonstrated effectiveness in electronic warfare scenarios.
- MANPADS: The ARKA shoulder-fired missile system has been developed for tri-service deployment.
In February, Adani Defence and Aerospace, in collaboration with DRDO, also unveiled a vehicle-mounted counter-drone system.
What Are Autonomous Systems?
Autonomous systems are unmanned platforms operating with minimal human intervention, enabled by advanced sensors, secure networks, and intelligent software.
- Air: Drones conduct reconnaissance, surveillance, communication, and precision support with extended endurance.
- Sea: Uncrewed vessels carry out maritime surveillance, underwater warfare, and mine-clearing operations.
- Land: Autonomous vehicles assist in reconnaissance, bomb disposal, and border security.
These systems enhance operational reach while significantly reducing risk to personnel.
Targeting 25% Share in Private Defence Market
By 2026, Adani Defence plans to:
- Expand drone platforms across air, sea, and land
- Strengthen precision-strike capabilities
- Scale up AI-driven defence technologies
- Establish additional service, maintenance, and training centres
The company aims to capture 25% of India’s private-sector defence market, aligning its expansion with the country’s long-term defence modernisation goals. Reports suggest the investment will also generate significant employment and strengthen India’s indigenous defence ecosystem.