JSW Defence Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of the US$23 billion JSW Group, has launched the construction of its next-generation Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) facility in EMC Maheshwaram, Hyderabad. This initiative marks a significant leap in India’s defence capabilities and aligns with the nation’s vision of self-reliance in advanced defence systems.
The project is underpinned by a long-term technology transfer and licensing partnership with Shield AI, a leading U.S. defence technology firm. This collaboration will see JSW Group invest approximately US$90 million to establish a global compliance framework, a manufacturing unit, and training programmes for skilled personnel. The investment aims to create an indigenous supply chain and a state-of-the-art centre for producing, assembling, and testing the V-BAT platform, a Group 3 VTOL UAS.
Parth Jindal, representing the JSW Group, laid the foundation stone for the facility, attended by Telangana’s Minister for IT, E&C and Industries & Commerce, Duddilla Sridhar Babu, along with senior government officials, Shield AI representatives, and members of the Indian Armed Forces. Jindal emphasised the project’s importance in advancing India’s defence self-sufficiency. “This development marks a significant stride in India’s quest for self-reliance in advanced defence systems,” he said. “Our collaboration with Shield AI aims to bring world-class unmanned capabilities to India, creating a complete, future-ready UAS ecosystem—from manufacturing to training, MRO services, and ongoing innovation.”
The facility is expected to commence production in the final quarter of 2026 and will serve as a hub for high-volume production to meet India’s defence needs while also functioning as an international manufacturing centre. Sarjan Shah, Managing Director for Shield AI in India, highlighted the partnership’s role in building a robust domestic production ecosystem for the VBAT. “This facility reflects the shared vision of the JSW Group and Shield AI to enhance Indo-US defence ties, driven by openness, trust, and aligned strategic goals,” Shah noted. He added that JSW’s scale and industrial capability make it an ideal partner for expanding the global reach of the V-BAT platform.
The V-BAT, a fixed-wing, VTOL, long-endurance ISR aircraft, is currently deployed by several militaries, including the United States Marine Expeditionary Units. Its patented ducted design, small logistical footprint, and rapid deployment capability make it ideal for complex operational environments. The platform supports special forces, frontline infantry, armoured formations, and artillery units with versatile ISR capabilities. Its introduction in India is poised to significantly enhance the country’s unmanned warfare capabilities.
This project aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, aiming to strengthen Telangana’s industrial landscape, generate high-skilled jobs, and reinforce India’s national security framework. The JSW Group, valued at US$23 billion, is one of India’s fastest-growing business houses, with operations spanning steel, energy, infrastructure, defence, cement, paints, venture capital, and sports. JSW Defence, through its subsidiary JSW Gecko Motors, currently builds the “JSW ATOR” specialist mobility vehicle for the Indian Army. With nearly 40,000 employees across India, the USA, Europe, and Africa, the Group is also renowned for its community development initiatives around its plant and port locations.
This strategic partnership between JSW Defence and Shield AI represents a pivotal moment in India’s defence sector, showcasing the potential of international collaboration to drive innovation and self-reliance. As the facility takes shape, it is expected to set new benchmarks in unmanned aerial technology and contribute significantly to India’s defence and industrial capabilities.