The Government of Andhra Pradesh has officially approved a proposal to establish India’s first autonomous maritime shipyard and systems development centre at Juvvaladinne Fishing Harbour in the SPSR Nellore district. This strategic decision sets the stage for a cutting-edge facility focused on unmanned and intelligent maritime technologies. 
The project, to be developed by Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt Ltd, will occupy 29.58 acres of land under lease through the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board. About 7.58 acres of this parcel includes valuable waterfront space, with the remaining area comprising harbour land to support shipbuilding, testing, and deployment activities. 
Unlike traditional yards, an autonomous maritime shipyard integrates advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, and automation systems to design, build, test, and maintain unmanned surface and underwater vessels. The centre is expected to contribute to enhanced coastal surveillance, offshore security, and indigenous defence capabilities. 
Officials say the facility will have wide-ranging applications in both civilian and defence sectors, reinforcing India’s push toward self-reliance in high-technology maritime systems. The project is also aligned with broader national initiatives to modernise maritime infrastructure and boost innovation in intelligent sea platforms. 
The shipyard is projected to generate around 750 jobs, including 300 direct roles and 450 indirect opportunities, helping spur local employment and develop skills in the coastal region. 
Construction is scheduled to begin in December 2025, with machinery installations planned by mid-2026. Trials are expected to commence in October 2026, ahead of commercial operations slated for November 2026. State departments responsible for maritime board operations, fisheries, water resources, and energy will coordinate to ensure timely implementation. 
The state’s clearance of this first-of-its-kind facility reflects Andhra Pradesh’s growing significance as a hub for next-generation maritime manufacturing and autonomous systems development in India. 
