At the 55th International Paris Air Show, Hyderabad-based Raghu Vamsi Aerospace Group unveiled the Astra-100, the nation’s first jet-powered Kamikaze UAV, marking a major turning point for India’s defense and aerospace industries.
The Astra-100 is a fixed-wing, jet-powered drone made for autonomous combat missions under its deep-tech brand ARROBOT. The UAV is notable for its total dependence on domestic systems, including telemetry, propulsion, and flight control, underscoring India’s developing prowess in autonomous defense technologies.
With a top speed of 450 km/h and an operational range of 200 km, the Astra 100 has already successfully finished test trials earlier this year, establishing a new standard for combat UAVs in India.
In addition to the UAV, Raghu Vamsi Aerospace unveiled a 40 KGF micro turbojet engine that is entirely domestically produced and designed for use in cruise missiles and UAVs. In front of DRDO officials, this engine—which is one of four in the family—was successfully tested at the company’s Hyderabad facility. The other three engines are the 14, 25, and 40 KGF. The 40 KGF engine marks a significant advancement in India’s propulsion capabilities and the result of years of meticulous manufacturing, research, and development focused on self-sufficient defense technologies.
The company’s growing worldwide presence is also reflected in its Paris Air Show showcase. WMT Precision LLC, a 40-year-old aerospace manufacturing company based in Syracuse, USA, that specializes in creating fuel nozzles for significant international aerospace companies, was recently purchased by Raghu Vamsi.
Through this calculated acquisition, Raghu Vamsi strengthens its position in the North American market and expands its knowledge of vital aero engine components. By acquiring PMC Group (UK) earlier in the year, the company expanded its engineering portfolio beyond aerospace and defense and made its first foray into the oil and gas industry, specializing in high-performance nickel alloy components.
Raghu Vamsi is building a cutting-edge 250,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Hyderabad’s Hardware Park to accommodate its expanding product line. With specialized divisions for high-precision machining for international OEMs, missile system sub-assemblies, and final assembly for engines, unmanned aerial vehicles, and UAVs, this facility is anticipated to be operational by early 2026.
More than 1,000 highly skilled jobs are expected to be created by the plant, greatly increasing India’s capacity for domestic aerospace manufacturing and supporting the country’s transition to defense self-reliance.
In addition to showcasing India’s technological prowess in autonomous warfare and propulsion systems, Raghu Vamsi Aerospace’s introduction of the Astra 100 UAV and the 40 KGF micro turbojet engine at the Paris Air Show also indicates the nation’s preparedness to take the lead in the global aerospace industry through innovation, domestic development, and strategic international expansion.
