MADC Allots 220 Acres in MIHAN SEZ for Solar Defence and Aerospace’s ₹12,700 Crore Project – EQ
In Short : The Maharashtra Airport Development Corporation (MADC) has approved 220 acres in the MIHAN SEZ for Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited’s ₹12,700 crore project. The initiative, including a separate venture for transport aircraft and defence equipment, is expected to create around 7,675 jobs. The project aims to strengthen Maharashtra’s aerospace and defence sector, boost infrastructure, and foster technological innovation.
In Detail : The Maharashtra Airport Development Corporation (MADC) has approved the allocation of 220 acres within the MIHAN Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL). The project represents a major investment exceeding ₹12,700 crore and is expected to create approximately 6,800 direct jobs in the region.
In addition to the primary project, SDAL has proposed a separate initiative focused on manufacturing transport aircraft and defence equipment. This venture is projected to generate an additional 875 employment opportunities, further contributing to local economic growth and skill development.
These developments follow a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the Maharashtra government during the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos. The agreement reflects the state’s commitment to attracting high-value investments in the aerospace and defence sectors.
Solar Group, known for its expertise in defence explosives including the Pinaka rockets, plans to expand its production portfolio to include 155mm shells. The company maintains a defence order book of ₹15,000 crore, with ongoing orders for hand grenades, UAVs, and other defence equipment.
The MIHAN-SEZ in Nagpur offers strategic advantages with multi-modal connectivity through air, road, and rail. The development of SDAL’s facilities is expected to enhance regional infrastructure and strengthen Maharashtra’s position as a hub for aerospace and defence manufacturing.
The project aligns with Maharashtra’s broader industrial strategy to attract high-tech investments, enhance infrastructure, and create employment opportunities. The state anticipates a positive economic impact through increased industrial activity and technological advancements.
Establishing SDAL’s facilities within MIHAN-SEZ will foster innovation and encourage collaboration between public and private sectors. The initiative is expected to promote knowledge exchange, skill development, and advanced technological research in defence and aerospace.
The manufacturing of transport aircraft and defence equipment will serve domestic requirements while positioning Maharashtra as a key player in the global defence supply chain. The project is expected to enhance the state’s competitiveness in international markets.
Overall, the approval of 220 acres to SDAL marks a significant milestone for Maharashtra’s defence and aerospace ambitions. The successful implementation of these projects will contribute to industrial growth, technological advancement, and socio-economic development in the region.
