AP invites Russian firms to invest in space, semiconductor sectors
Andhra Pradesh has invited Russian space and technology companies to invest in its emerging space and advanced manufacturing ecosystem, with state officials outlining plans across aerospace, semiconductors and electronics.
Speaking at a business dialogue during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2026, IT and human resource development minister Nara Lokesh said the state is looking to build long-term partnerships with global technology firms.
“The state is positioning itself as a partner for advanced technology industries, including space and semiconductors,” Lokesh said, while addressing delegates.
He highlighted the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, India’s only operational spaceport, which has supported more than 100 missions.
The state government has introduced Space Policy 4.0 and is developing dedicated “space cities” focused on satellite systems, launch vehicles and research. A proposed Tirupati Space City, planned over 3,000 acres near Sriharikota, will house manufacturing and research facilities for satellites, launch vehicles and avionics.
Lokesh said the project is expected to attract about $4 billion in investment. “We are looking at large-scale participation from global partners, including Russia,” he said. Beyond space, he said Andhra Pradesh is exploring opportunities in semiconductors, microelectronics, quantum computing and energy.
An advanced manufacturing corridor is also being developed in Sri Sathya Sai district for aerospace, drones, naval systems, avionics and semiconductor industries.
In a separate engagement, Lokesh met representatives of Russia’s Element Group and Nanotronica in Moscow. Element Group is a microelectronics company producing semiconductor components, RFID chips and industrial electronics.
He discussed potential cooperation in electronics manufacturing, including semiconductor assembly in Visakhapatnam, power electronics in Nellore, robotics in Sri City and a microelectronics design centre. “We are open to structured collaboration in high-technology manufacturing,” he said.
India has been expanding its semiconductor ecosystem as part of efforts to attract global investment and reduce import dependence.