Hyderabad-based precision engineering manufacturer, Azad Engineering Limited, reached a major milestone by manufacturing and delivering the country’s first fully indigenous, integrated Advanced Turbo Gas Generator Engine to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE).
About Azad Engineering
Established in 2008 by visionary entrepreneur, Mr. Rakesh Chopdar, Azad stands at the forefront of global precision manufacturing, specialising in highly engineered, complex, mission- and life-critical components for the Energy, Aerospace, Defence and Oil & Gas sectors.
The company is revolutionizing the global precision manufacturing industry by leveraging cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art infrastructure.
With over 17+ years of operational excellence, Azad serves as a trusted Tier 1 supplier to the world’s leading Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) across several countries and has established a comprehensive ecosystem designed to effectively meet their ever-evolving needs.
About the Engine
Built as a single-spool turbojet propulsion system, the engine features a 4-stage axial flow compressor, an annular combustor, a single-stage axial flow uncooled turbine, and a fixed exit area nozzle.
These compact, high-thrust turbojets are specifically designed to power expendable platforms, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), cruise missiles, aerial target systems, and long-range standoff weapons.
Serving as GTRE’s sole Industry Partner, Azad Engineering executed end-to-end component fabrication, precision machining, structural assembly, and final integration.
This accomplishment marks a significant structural shift in Indian private sector defence manufacturing, transitioning from manufacturing individual engine blades or airfoils to assembling fully integrated propulsion systems.
Promoting a Self-Reliant India
Historically, small turbojet engines powering target drones and tactical unmanned platforms were largely imported. By establishing full domestic manufacturing capability for these power plants, the initiative significantly reduces foreign dependencies and provides a direct boost to India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) defense vision.
Muskan Singh
