Spanning 650 acres, the facility will serve as a comprehensive hub for aircraft integration, testing, and certification activities. Authorities have confirmed that the centre will play a critical role in advancing next-generation combat aircraft development under the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme, reinforcing India’s strategic push toward self-reliance in defence production.
The project is also expected to generate approximately 7,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities, contributing to regional economic growth and the development of a specialised defence and drone manufacturing ecosystem. Alongside the testing centre, additional infrastructure including a Naval Systems Facility and a dedicated Drone City has been announced, further expanding the scope of the defence corridor.
Government representatives have described the initiative as a historic milestone in India’s defence sector, aligning closely with the national vision of self-reliance in critical military technologies. Singh, a senior official associated with the announcement, referred to the development as the beginning of a new chapter in the country’s defence history.
However, the decision to locate the facility in Puttaparthi has triggered concern in neighbouring Tamil Nadu, where officials expressed disappointment over the relocation of the project from Hosur. Tamil Nadu stakeholders cited prior developmental efforts and favourable infrastructure conditions in Hosur as key reasons supporting their position. Despite these concerns, there has been no official statement from the Defence Research and Development Organisation or the Ministry of Defence regarding the site selection.
The project is expected to significantly reshape India’s defence aviation landscape, positioning Andhra Pradesh as a major hub for advanced military aerospace testing and integration capabilities.
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