Noida, August 30, 2025 – In a powerful show of India’s push towards becoming a defence powerhouse, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated a cutting-edge drone manufacturing unit and engine test facility in Noida’s Sector-81 today. The event, buzzing with energy from officials, engineers, and industry folks, spotlights Raphe mPhibr Pvt Ltd’s new setup – a game-changer for homegrown defence tech. This isn’t just about building machines, it’s about securing the nation’s future in a world where drones are rewriting the rules of warfare.
The ceremony started with the leaders cutting the ribbon, followed by tours of the facility where advanced drones and electronic warfare gear were on display. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, speaking to a packed crowd, stressed how Uttar Pradesh is stepping up big time in defence production. “A nation gets strong only when knowledge and weapons go hand in hand,” he said, drawing from ancient wisdom and heroes like Maharana Pratap. He pointed to Operation Sindoor, a recent military success that showed India’s might, and praised the BrahMos missile unit in Lucknow for its role in it. Yogi highlighted that the state has set aside 12,500 acres for defence corridors across places like Agra, Aligarh, Jhansi, Chitrakoot, and Kanpur. With nine ordnance factories already running and new centres like the AK-203 unit in Amethi, UP is turning into a defence hub. “This facility will boost our security against electronic threats and cut our need for foreign tech,” he added, noting how Noida is now a top pick for investors thanks to better law and order.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh echoed the excitement, calling the unit a “revolution in defence technology” and dedicating it to the nation. He shared how Raphe mPhibr started small in 2017 with just 10 people and now boasts over 3,600 scientists and engineers. “These drones can’t even be picked up by radar systems from the US or China – they’ll make enemies think twice,” Singh said with a grin. He talked about how drones have evolved from simple scouts to key players in battles, like in the Russia-Ukraine war where they’ve been used non-stop. “We must weave drones into our war plans, they’re vital for spots big gear can’t reach,” he urged. Singh also gave a nod to the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, saying self-reliance in defence isn’t optional anymore. He recalled the quick deployment of DRDO-collaborated tech in Operation Sindoor, done in just 14 months, blending science, grit, and the armed forces’ bravery.
The facility itself is impressive – it’s got India’s largest aero engine test bed, high-heat furnaces up to 2800°C for metallic alloys, and lines for swarm and guided missile drones. This means faster testing and production of engines and systems, cutting down on imports and speeding up innovations. Experts say it aligns perfectly with the defence industrial corridor, creating jobs for thousands and drawing more investments to the region. During the event, attendees got a close look at drone models, sparking talks on how this tech could also help in disaster response and border patrols.
This inauguration comes at a time when global tensions are high, and India is racing to build its own arsenal. With UP leading the charge, Noida is set to rival big defence spots worldwide. As Singh put it, more pressure just makes us stronger. The day ended on a high note, with hopes that this unit will not only arm the forces but also inspire the next generation of innovators.
FAQs
1. What was inaugurated in Noida on August 30, 2025?
The Raphe mPhibr Drone Manufacturing Unit and Defence Equipment and Engine Test Facility in Sector-81, Noida, focused on advanced drones, aircraft engines, and aerospace testing.
2. Who were the key figures at the event?
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the inauguration, with Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and other officials present.
3. How does this unit support India’s defence goals?
It boosts self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat by producing undetectable drones and testing facilities, reducing foreign dependence and enhancing security, as seen in Operation Sindoor.
4. What role does Uttar Pradesh play in national defence?
The state has nine ordnance factories, a BrahMos unit in Lucknow, and 12,500 acres allocated for defence corridors across six nodes, creating jobs and turning it into a major hub.
5. Why are drones important according to the ministers?
Drones are crucial in modern warfare for surveillance, combat, and hard-to-reach areas, as shown in global conflicts like Russia-Ukraine, and must be integrated into India’s strategies.
