Lohia Aerospace to set up R&D centres in India, Israel

Kanpur-based Lohia Aerospace Systems is set to establish research and development centres in India and Israel to drive innovation in composite materials used in military aircraft and UAVs.

The centres will focus on developing new materials and advanced assembly techniques, CEO Anurag Lohia said, adding that the Indian R&D unit is expected to be operational by October-November, while the Israel facility will be ready by February-March next year. The initiative involves an estimated investment of $8 million (Rs 68 crore).

Lohia Aerospace already supplies composites and aero-structures for loitering munitions, UAVs and fighter jets to major global defence companies, including partners in Israel, the US, Germany and France. It is also collaborating with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and several Indian UAV manufacturers.

“We are suppliers to all top global companies in military aviation and are competing with worldwide suppliers,” Lohia said, noting that the company is also planning to double its existing production capacity.