Hyderabad-based Raghu Vamsi showcases 40 KGF micro turbojet engine, kamikaze drones at Paris Air Show

Raghu Vamsi Aerospace Group unveils cutting-edge defence products at Paris Air Show, acquires WMT Precision for $8.5 million.

From a 40 kilogram-force (KGF) micro turbojet engine to high-performance kamikaze drones, Hyderabad-based Raghu Vamsi Aerospace Group unveiled some of its latest defence and propulsion technology products at the 55th International Paris Air Show.

Separately, the company also announced acquisition of WMT Precision LLC, a 40-year-old aerospace manufacturing company based in Syracuse, USA, for $8.5 million.

Sharing details of its showcase at the prestigious air show, Raghu Vamsi Aerospace Group said the 40 KGF micro turbojet engine was developed for UAVs and cruise missiles. It was successfully tested at the company’s Hyderabad facility in the presence of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) officials. The high-thrust engine is part of a family of four indigenous engines (14, 19, 25 and 40 KGF) designed and manufactured entirely in India.

“This engine represents a leap for Indian aerospace propulsion. It’s the culmination of years of R&D, manufacturing precision and a bold vision for self-reliant defence technologies,” managing director Vamsi Vikas said.

The company also choose the air show to showcase Astra 100, a jet-powered fixed-wing kamikaze unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed under its deep-tech brand Arrobot. With a range of 200 km and speeds of up to 450 km/h, the UAV completed successful test trials earlier this year. It is powered entirely by indigenous systems, including flight control, propulsion and telemetry. “We are building the future of autonomous warfare with 100% indigenous systems. The Astra 100 proves India’s readiness to lead in this space,” Mr. Vikas said.

The acquisition of WMT Precision, which counts Collins, Parker and Honeywell among customers for its fuel nozzles, will enhance Raghu Vamsi’s capabilities in critical aero engine components and provide a strong foothold in the North American market. In November 2024, the group had announced acquisition of PMC Group (UK) and with it entry into the oil and gas sector. PMC specialises in high-performance nickel alloy components for surface, drilling, sub-sea and wireline operations.

Raghu Vamsi is developing a 250,000 sq ft manufacturing facility at Hardware Park, Hyderabad that will house specialised divisions for high-precision machining for global OEMs; sub-assemblies for missile systems; and final assembly for engines, UAVs, and unmanned ground vehicles. The plant is expected to be operational by early 2026, creating over 1,000 high-skilled jobs.