Tamil Nadu could emerge as one of India’s biggest defence electronics manufacturing hubs by 2040, with an annual production opportunity of ₹37,000 crore, according to a strategic roadmap presented by B.K. Das, Distinguished Scientist and Director General (Electronics & Communication Systems), DRDO, at the CII TNDefX Conclave 2026.
The roadmap estimates that the state could capture 20–25% of India’s projected ₹1.49-lakh-crore defence electronics market by 2040, while generating annual exports of up to ₹10,000 crore. Tamil Nadu’s established strengths in electronics, semiconductors, aerospace and automotive manufacturing are expected to drive this growth.
Industry experts believe achieving this target will require sustained investments in research and development, testing infrastructure, component ecosystems and skilled talent. Stronger collaboration between DRDO, private industry and academic institutions will also be crucial for developing advanced technologies such as radar systems, electronic warfare solutions and secure communication systems.
If realised, the roadmap would position Tamil Nadu as a leading centre for defence electronics manufacturing and exports, reinforcing India’s self-reliance goals while strengthening the state’s role in the country’s rapidly expanding defence ecosystem.
