Telangana's IT and Industries Minister D Sridhar Babu, on 02 December, 2025 laid the foundation for JSW Defence’sunmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) facility at Electronic Mnaufacturing Cluster (EMC) in Maheshwaram.

The Rs 850-crore project, a collaboration with US-based Shield AI, will focus on producing drones essential for national security, utilising advanced technologies like AI, cyber systems, and satellite integration. The new facility, covering 16 acres, will manufacture up to 300 VBAT drones annually and offer full-service capabilities such as repair, overhaul (MRO), assembly, and testing. Minister Babu emphasised Telangana’s role in India's defence sector, noting, "Drones, satellites, cyber systems, and AI are now pivotal in drone manufacturing essential for national security."

This project aligns with Telangana’s ambition to establish a drone manufacturing and testing corridor, with India’s UAV market expected to reach USD 4.4-5 billion by 2030.