After focusing mainly on the domestic market for defense equipment, the Solar Group is now expanding into the major global export market. The Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) has allotted 220 acres of special economic zone land in Mihan to its subsidiary, Economic Explosives Limited (EEL). On this land, the company will manufacture defense systems, drones, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) designed for long-range endurance.
A senior official of Solar Industries Limited (the parent company of EEL) said that equipment manufactured at the Mihan plant will be exported to friendly countries. “In the next three to four years, we aim to concentrate on the defense sector and become a major global player. There is increasing demand for drones worldwide, and India can play a crucial role in meeting it,” he added.
In recent years, India has strengthened its position as a defense exporter, with nations in Africa, the Middle East, and South America showing keen interest in Indian defense products. The official noted that many of these countries are already in talks with Solar Group, expressing readiness to purchase drones.
For the Mihan plant, Solar Group will invest ₹12,870 crore, creating 6,800 jobs. Additionally, it will invest ₹660 crore in a 220-acre renewable energy (solar power) plant, generating 870 more jobs. This will be a major project for the region. Several domestic and international companies have also applied to work within the Mihan SEZ, considering the advanced scientific and technological ecosystem being developed there.
Solar Group, with a market capitalization of ₹1.27 lakh crore, has so far been engaged in producing explosives and defense products. Until now, the company has operated mainly from Amravati Road in Nagpur, but with the Mihan project, it is taking a decisive step toward becoming a significant exporter of defense equipment and drones.
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