Hyderabad-based Raghu Vamsi Aerospace unveiled India’s first jet-powered kamikaze UAV—Astra 100—at the Paris Air Show. Featuring 100% indigenous systems, it also introduced a 40 KGF micro turbojet engine, highlighting India’s growing capability in autonomous defense technologies and propulsion systems
Published Date – 18 June 2025, 04:46 PM
Raghu Vamsi Aerospace unveiled a fully indigenous 40 KGF micro turbojet engine and jet-powered, fixed-wing kamikaze UAV in 55th International Paris Airshow
Hyderabad: A Hyderabad-based aerospace company has made history by unveiling a jet-powered, fixed-wing kamikaze UAV developed under its deep-tech brand ARROBOT at the 55th International Paris Air Show.
The UAV, named Astra 100, sets a new benchmark for autonomous combat drones in India. It boasts a range of 200 km and speeds of up to 450 kmph, and is powered entirely by indigenous systems, including flight control, propulsion, and telemetry. The drone has successfully completed test trials earlier this year.
“We are building the future of autonomous warfare with 100% indigenous systems. The Astra 100 proves India’s readiness to lead in this space,” the company said in a press release on Wednesday.
Marking a significant milestone in India’s aerospace journey, Raghu Vamsi Aerospace Group, a leader in high-precision manufacturing, also unveiled its latest defense and propulsion technologies at the international event. Its showcase included indigenous micro turbojet engines and high-performance kamikaze drones, underscoring its expanding global footprint and commitment to India’s defense self-reliance.
To bolster its position as a global aerospace player, Raghu Vamsi recently acquired WMT Precision LLC, a 40-year-old U.S.-based aerospace manufacturing company in Syracuse, known for producing fuel nozzles for Collins, Parker, and Honeywell. This acquisition enhances Raghu Vamsi’s capabilities in critical aero engine components and provides a strong foothold in the North American market.
Earlier this year, the group also acquired PMC Group (UK), marking its entry into the oil & gas sector. PMC specializes in high-performance nickel alloy components for surface, drilling, sub-sea, and wireline operations, further broadening the company’s engineering portfolio beyond aerospace and defense.
Raghu Vamsi Aerospace unveiled a fully indigenous 40 KGF micro turbojet engine and jet-powered, fixed-wing kamikaze UAV in 55th International Paris Airshow
India’s First 40 KGF Micro Turbojet Engine Unveiled
At the Paris Air Show, Raghu Vamsi unveiled a fully indigenous 40 KGF micro turbojet engine, developed for UAVs and cruise missiles—representing a major leap in India’s propulsion capabilities. Successfully tested at the company’s Hyderabad facility in the presence of DRDO officials, this engine is part of a family of four engines (14, 19, 25, and 40 KGF), all designed and manufactured entirely in India.
“This engine represents a historic leap for Indian aerospace propulsion. It’s the culmination of years of R&D, manufacturing precision, and a bold vision for self-reliant defense technologies,” said Vamsi Vikas, Managing Director, Raghu Vamsi Aerospace Group.
To support its growing product portfolio, the company is developing a state-of-the-art 250,000 sq ft manufacturing facility at Hardware Park, Hyderabad. The facility will feature specialized divisions for: high-precision machining for global OEMs, sub-assemblies for missile systems, final assembly for engines, UAVs, and unmanned ground vehicles.
Expected to be operational by early 2026, the plant will create over 1,000 high-skilled jobs, significantly boosting India’s domestic aerospace manufacturing capacity.
