Carborundum Universal’s Defence Thrust, To Set Up Silicon Carbide Ceramics Plant In TN

In the emerging geopolitical context, the focus is increasingly on self-reliance. Not surprisingly, the business strategy of many revolves around this. This one too is no exception. Carborundum Universal Ltd (CUMI), a part of the Murugappa Group, is gearing up for a major expansion in its defence and aerospace vertical. The company plans to establish a new manufacturing facility at Hosur in Tamil Nadu to produce approximately 150 tonnes of silicon carbide ceramics annually, primarily for use in armour applications. The Hosur plant will also manufacture ceramic armour of different grades, including alumina, silicon carbide and zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA).“Hosur will be a key hub for us as it is also the nodal point of the Tamil Nadu Defence Corridor,” said Subbu Venkatachalam, Head – Aerospace and Defence, CUMI. “We aim to strengthen India’s local ecosystem in advanced materials and build lighter, safer and high-performance armour systems for the armed forces.” The new facility aligns with CUMI’s long-term plan to increase the capacity and range of its ceramic solutions for defence, while also deepening indigenisation in critical material production. The company currently produces raw materials such as alumina and silicon carbide in Kerala, which are then processed into ceramic armour components in Tamil Nadu. CUMI is also working towards achieving the STANAG Level 6 certification, the highest global benchmark for armour protection. The company’s R&D efforts are focused on developing newer materials and smart ceramics that can enhance protection without adding weight. With this expansion, CUMI aims to play a larger role in India’s defence supply chain and contribute to the country’s self-reliance in high-performance.