Tamil Nadu is poised to bolster India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing with the completion of four flagship projects under the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme by December 2025, according to Guidance, the state’s investment promotion agency. These ambitious initiatives, designed to strengthen the state’s defence industrial corridor, are being executed by the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Ltd (TIDCO) in collaboration with leading public and private sector partners.
The projects are strategically located in Vallam Vadagal, Kancheepuram district, and Tiruchirappalli, positioning Tamil Nadu as a hub for cutting-edge defence technology. The four facilities include: the Unmanned Aerial Systems Testing Centre (ADART) in Sriperumbudur, focused on drone avionics research and testing; the Electronic Warfare Testing Facility and the Electro-Optics Testing Facility (LENS), both in Vallam Vadagal, to advance electronic and optical systems; and the Mechanical and Material Systems Testing Facility (STREAM) in Tiruchirappalli, dedicated to advanced materials and systems research.
“These projects are a game-changer for India’s journey toward Atmanirbhar Bharat,” Guidance stated in a press release. By addressing critical gaps in domestic testing capabilities, the facilities will provide affordable certification support to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), startups, and larger industries, fostering innovation and reducing reliance on foreign testing infrastructure. The initiatives are expected to enhance Tamil Nadu’s leadership in aerospace and defence manufacturing, a sector where the state already hosts major players like Boeing and Lockheed Martin.
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TIDCO, established in 1965 to promote industrial growth through joint ventures, is spearheading the projects to ensure timely completion. The integration of advanced testing facilities is set to attract further investments, create high-skill jobs, and position Tamil Nadu as a global leader in defence production. “These facilities will empower our industries to innovate and compete on the world stage,” a TIDCO official said.
As the December 2025 deadline approaches, Tamil Nadu’s proactive efforts signal a transformative step toward strengthening India’s defence ecosystem, aligning with national goals of self-reliance and technological advancement.
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