In a landmark move for India’s maritime and defence manufacturing sector, the Andhra Pradesh government has approved Sagar Defence Engineering Private Limited’s proposal to establish the country’s first dedicated autonomous maritime shipyard and systems development centre at Juvvaladinne fishing harbour in Bogole mandal, SPSR Nellore district.
The project aims to position Andhra Pradesh as a hub for next-generation maritime and autonomous systems development. The specialised facility will focus exclusively on constructing, integrating, testing, and supporting unmanned and autonomous surface and underwater vessels, along with intelligent maritime systems, sensors, and command-and-control technologies.
The shipyard is expected to generate around 750 jobs, including 300 direct and 450 indirect positions, while strengthening the industrial and skills ecosystem in the coastal region.
“Autonomous maritime shipyards are critical for modern maritime operations, enabling enhanced coastal surveillance, offshore security, and defence preparedness with minimal human intervention,” said officials.
The state government has approved the allotment of 29.58 acres of land at Juvvaladinne fishing harbour on a lease basis through the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board, including 7.58 acres of waterfront land and 22 acres of harbour land, ensuring direct sea access essential for shipbuilding and deployment of autonomous maritime platforms.
Construction is scheduled to commence in December 2025, with machinery installation expected to be completed by June 2026. Trial production will begin in October 2026, followed by the launch of commercial operations in November 2026. The project will receive coordinated infrastructure support from various state departments.
Sagar Defence Engineering Private Limited, a leading Indian defence and maritime technology firm, specialises in autonomous surface vessels, underwater platforms, and mission-critical maritime systems. The company is recognised for its focus on indigenous design, advanced systems integration, and alignment with national priorities like Atmanirbhar Bharat and defence indigenisation.
The project received approval from the State Investment Promotion Committee (SIPC) and the State Investment Promotion Board (SIPB) in their meeting on December 4, 2025. Lease rent will be set at 6% of the fair market value, with an annual escalation of 5% and an additional premium for the waterfront land, in accordance with Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board guidelines.
The government has directed the maritime board, along with fisheries, water resources, and energy departments, to take necessary actions for the timely execution of the project.
This initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening India’s indigenous maritime capabilities and establishing Andhra Pradesh as a strategic hub for autonomous defence and maritime technologies.
