Lucknow is rapidly emerging as a key hub in India's defence manufacturing landscape, with the recent flag-off of the first batch of BrahMos missiles produced at the BrahMos Aerospace Production Unit. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, officiated the event, marking a significant milestone for the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor (UPDIC) and a major boost to the country's self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The BrahMos Aerospace unit, located in Sarojini Nagar, Lucknow, is a state-of-the-art facility equipped for missile integration, testing, and quality checks. Inaugurated on May 11, 2025, the unit underscores the commitment to indigenous defence production. Following successful testing, the BrahMos missiles manufactured here will be deployed by the Indian armed forces.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the importance of the BrahMos facility in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' vision. He highlighted that the state government has allocated over 2,500 acres of land across six nodes for the defence corridor, generating employment for over 15,000 youth in Uttar Pradesh. Adityanath also noted the potential revenue generation for the state, estimating an annual GST contribution of ₹150 to ₹200 crore once the unit reaches its full production capacity of 100-150 missiles per year.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the BrahMos missile as a symbol of India's growing indigenous capabilities. He noted its advanced guided system, long-range strike capability, and supersonic speed, making it one of the best systems of its kind in the world. Singh expressed confidence that the BrahMos would deter potential adversaries.
The BrahMos missile, a product of collaboration between India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya, has already demonstrated its impact. Prime Minister Modi, in August 2025, lauded the performance of indigenous weapons, including the BrahMos, during Operation Sindoor, where they countered Pakistani drones and missiles.
The establishment of the BrahMos manufacturing unit in Lucknow marks a crucial step in strengthening India's defence industrial base and reducing reliance on foreign imports. It signifies Uttar Pradesh's emergence as a key player in this sector, attracting investment and creating opportunities for technological advancement and economic growth. The integration of manufacturing, testing, and quality control processes within the Lucknow facility further enhances its strategic importance. The flagging off ceremony also included the inauguration of the Booster Building and a demonstration of the booster docking process. With its skilled workforce, strategic location, and government support, Uttar Pradesh is poised to become a defence powerhouse, contributing significantly to India's national security and economic prosperity.
