India has taken a major step forward in self-reliant defence manufacturing with the flagging off of the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles from the new Lucknow Integration and Testing Facility. The facility, part of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor, marks a significant milestone in the nation’s strategic and technological growth.
The inauguration ceremony on October 18, 2025, was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Highlighting the strategic impact of the BrahMos missile, Singh stated that the system provides India with a robust deterrent capability, making key regions within reach of the nation’s defence forces.
The Lucknow facility, built over 200 acres at an investment of ₹380 crore, is designed for the assembly, testing, and integration of high-precision BrahMos missiles. It is expected to produce around 100 missiles annually, and generate significant revenue, with projections of ₹3,000 crore in turnover and ₹500 crore in GST contributions.
Singh also emphasized the importance of indigenous manufacturing in achieving strategic independence, noting that the facility not only strengthens India’s defence posture but also fosters technological self-reliance. Efforts are underway to involve small and medium enterprises in the defence supply chain, ensuring a broader economic and employment impact.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath welcomed the milestone, stating that the facility represents a new chapter in India’s journey towards self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta). He highlighted that the Defence Corridor has already provided employment to thousands of local youths while supporting the growth of high-tech industries.
The Lucknow BrahMos facility stands out as the first in India capable of handling the full lifecycle of a strategic missile system, from assembly to testing. This development signals a major leap forward for India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
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