Cuban Delegation Visits Indian Drone Facility; Expanding India

In a meaningful advancement of India–Cuba economic engagement, a distinguished delegation from the Republic of Cuba visited NextLeap Aeronautics Pvt Ltd, a leading Indian drone manufacturing and development facility, reflecting growing interest in technology collaboration and industrial cooperation between the two nations.

Facilitated under the framework of the SCO Trade Council, the engagement highlighted the increasing importance of industry-led diplomacy in strengthening international cooperation. The Council’s focus on emerging sectors, particularly unmanned systems, has created an enabling platform for structured collaboration between Indian enterprises and global partners.

The Cuban delegation was given a comprehensive presentation on indigenous drone platforms developed in India , ranging from applications in agriculture and infrastructure monitoring to disaster response, logistics, and mapping. The visit demonstrated not only manufacturing strength but also the integration of advanced software systems, sensor technologies, and artificial intelligence within India’s drone ecosystem.

Cuba’s engagement with India’s drone industry reflects its broader interest in modernising technical capabilities while exploring cost-effective and scalable solutions. Indian businesses offer a mature industrial environment supported by engineering expertise, research institutions, and an expanding network of certified manufacturers.

Guiding the broader engagement is Dr. Sheikh Akhtar, President of the INDIA SCO UNMANNED SYSTEMS COUNCIL (IUSC) , whose experience across defence, aerospace, and international security domains has shaped the Council’s emphasis on technology-driven cooperation. An Air Force veteran and recognised subject matter expert in defence and geopolitical affairs, Dr. Akhtar has consistently advocated for structured international industry partnerships that translate dialogue into measurable economic outcomes. Under his stewardship, the Council has strengthened its sectoral platforms, including its focus on unmanned systems as a catalyst for cross-border collaboration.

Building on the momentum generated by the visit, the SCO Trade Council is preparing to lead a dedicated business and technology delegation to Cuba in the third quarter of 2026. The forthcoming mission is expected to convene industry leaders, institutional stakeholders, and government representatives in Havana to further examine collaboration opportunities in unmanned systems and related sectors. The initiative demonstrates the Council’s continued commitment to strengthening bilateral economic ties through practical engagement and structured industry dialogue.

The Cuban delegation’s visit stands as an important chapter in the expanding relationship between India and Cuba. As innovation becomes central to economic growth and industrial advancement, partnerships anchored in technology exchange and institutional cooperation are increasingly shaping the contours of global engagement.