Hyderabad, already making waves in the nation with its expertise in drones, missiles, aircraft components, and other defense sector products, is now poised to become a center for cutting-edge flight simulation technology. Under the aegis of the Telangana state government, T-Works is spearheading the development of indigenous fighter jet flight simulators—an innovation that promises to significantly reduce India’s reliance on costly imports.
Until now, the Indian Air Force and Navy have been dependent on simulators imported from the United States and Europe, with costs reaching up to ₹50 crore per unit. These simulators are essential for pilot training, enabling them to practice complex maneuvers without risk. However, this reliance on foreign technology is set to end, thanks to Hyderabad-based Axial Aero Private Limited, which has obtained all necessary clearances to manufacture these simulators domestically.
Axial Aero has already commenced commercial production and signed a major agreement with Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) under the Ministry of Defence to supply five advanced simulators over the next three years. Notably, the company will offer these state-of-the-art simulators at a significantly lower cost of ₹25–30 crore each—almost half of the current import price—providing a major boost to the defense budget.
Advanced Technology Meets Indigenous Innovation
The simulators being developed at T-Works feature a Stewart platform capable of rotating 360 degrees, allowing pilots to practice evasive and combat maneuvers in realistic battle scenarios. The platform’s design ensures a highly immersive training experience while enabling pilots to operate in simulated environments that closely replicate real combat conditions.
During a recent visit, IT and Industries Minister Shri D Shridhar Babu spent nearly two hours at T-Works, reviewing the research progress and holding a detailed meeting with engineers. He commended the team for completing complex research in record time and securing significant orders, highlighting Telangana’s growing capabilities in advanced defense technology.
Economic and Industrial Impact
The launch of indigenous flight simulators is expected to have a ripple effect across Hyderabad’s industrial ecosystem. Ancillary industries producing simulator components are likely to emerge, providing new opportunities for the MSME sector. Experts predict that Hyderabad could soon become a global hub for flight simulator production, exporting technology to leading countries and reinforcing India’s defense self-reliance.
With this development, Hyderabad not only strengthens its position as a defense manufacturing center but also showcases India’s growing prowess in high-technology aerospace research. The city is now set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of pilot training and defense simulation technology, reducing costs, and driving innovation in the sector.