The world’s first autonomous maritime shipbuilding and systems development centre is set to be established near the Juvvaladinne fishing harbour in Andhra Pradesh’s SPSR Nellore district. The project will be developed by Sagar Defence Engineering with support from the state government.
The facility will span about 29.58 acres and integrate shipbuilding infrastructure, testing facilities, research laboratories, and training centres within a single campus. It will focus on developing autonomous and unmanned maritime platforms, including unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).
The centre will also work on advanced technologies such as AI-based navigation systems, maritime robotics, electric propulsion, and sensor integration, enabling real-world trials in nearby coastal waters.
Besides strengthening India’s defence and maritime capabilities, the project is expected to generate around 300 direct jobs and many indirect employment opportunities while boosting the coastal industrial ecosystem.Officials say the initiative aligns with India’s push for indigenous defence manufacturing and maritime self-reliance, positioning Andhra Pradesh as a hub for next-generation maritime technology and innovation.
