In a significant move for India's defence sector and domestic manufacturing capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council has greenlit a substantial ₹30,000 crore deal for the procurement of 87 Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drones. This decision marks a major boost for local unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) production in the country.

Deal Specifics

The approved deal, valued at ₹30,000.00 crore, encompasses the acquisition of 87 MALE drones. These advanced UAVs are crucial for enhancing India's surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, potentially strengthening the nation's defence posture.

Key Beneficiaries

Two major Indian conglomerates are set to share this lucrative order:

1. Tata Advanced Systems: A subsidiary of Tata Group, known for its expertise in aerospace and defence technologies.
2. Adani Defence & Aerospace : Part of the Adani Group, which has been expanding its footprint in the defence sector.

Implications for Tata Advanced Systems

For Tata Advanced Systems, this deal represents a significant opportunity to showcase its capabilities in advanced drone technology and manufacturing. As one of the two companies selected for this high-value contract, Tata Advanced Systems is positioned to play a crucial role in India's push towards self-reliance in defence production.

Adani Defence & Aerospace Expansion

In a related development, Adani Defence & Aerospace has formed a partnership with Prime Aero to expand its aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations. As part of this expansion strategy, the company will acquire a 100% stake in Indamer Technics. This move is likely to strengthen Adani's position in the defence and aerospace sector, complementing its involvement in the drone deal.

Boost to Local Manufacturing

This initiative aligns with India's broader goal of boosting indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities. By entrusting the production of these sophisticated drones to domestic companies, the government is taking a concrete step towards reducing reliance on imports for critical defence equipment.

Market Impact

The announcement of this deal is likely to have positive implications for both Tata Group and Adani Group's market performance, particularly for their defence and aerospace divisions. Investors and market analysts will be closely watching how this contract translates into revenue growth and technological advancements for both companies.

Looking Ahead

As the project moves forward, it will be interesting to observe how Tata Advanced Systems and Adani Defence & Aerospace collaborate or compete in fulfilling this significant order. The successful execution of this contract could pave the way for more such deals in the future, further solidifying India's position in the global defence manufacturing landscape.

This development marks a milestone in India's defence procurement strategy, emphasizing the growing capabilities of domestic manufacturers in producing advanced military hardware.

Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL), a key player in India's infrastructure and energy sectors, has announced a significant change in its board composition. The company has appointed Bharat Kanaiyalal Sheth as an Additional Director (Non-Executive, Independent) for a three-year term, effective August 9, 2025, subject to shareholder approval.

Board Transition

The appointment of Sheth coincides with the completion of Hemant Nerurkar's second term as an Independent Director. Nerurkar's tenure concluded at the close of business hours on August 9, 2025, marking the end of his association with the company. The Board of Directors and Management of Adani Enterprises have expressed their appreciation for Nerurkar's valuable contributions and guidance during his time with the company.

Profile of Bharat Kanaiyalal Sheth

Bharat Sheth brings a wealth of experience to Adani Enterprises, particularly in the shipping industry. His appointment was based on the recommendation of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee and approved by the Board of Directors through a resolution passed by circulation.

Key points about Bharat Sheth:

• Currently serves as Deputy Chairman & Managing Director of The Great Eastern Shipping Company Limited, India's premier shipping company
• Holds a Bachelor of Science (Economics) with honours from St Andrews University, Scotland
• Joined the shipping industry in 1981 and has over four decades of experience
• Appointed as Executive Director of The Great Eastern Shipping Company in 1989, became Managing Director in 1999, and Deputy Chairman & Managing Director in 2005
• Chairman of Greatship (India) Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary operating in the oil field services business
• Board member of several prestigious organizations, including North of England P&I Association Ltd, Steamship Mutual Association (Bermuda) Limited, Indian National Shipowners Association, and International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited

Corporate Governance and Compliance

Adani Enterprises has confirmed that Bharat Sheth is not related to any Director of the company and is not debarred from holding the office of Director by virtue of any SEBI or other such authority. This appointment aligns with the company's commitment to maintaining strong corporate governance practices.

Additional Corporate Developments

In a separate announcement on August 8, 2025, Adani Enterprises disclosed the incorporation of two step-down wholly-owned subsidiaries through its subsidiary Mundra Synenergy Limited:

1. OD Syn-Gas & Chemicals Limited (OSGCL)
2. UP Syn-Gas & Chemicals Limited (USGCL)

Both entities have been incorporated with a subscribed capital of Rs. 5.00 lakh each, divided into 50,000 equity shares of Rs. 10 each. These new subsidiaries are set to operate in the chemical industry, focusing on the manufacture of chemicals and chemical products.

The strategic expansion into the chemical sector through these subsidiaries signals Adani Enterprises' intent to diversify its business portfolio and explore new growth opportunities in the chemical manufacturing domain.