KLA Corporation, a worldwide leader in semiconductor process control and enabling technologies, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Tamil Nadu to set up a new research, development, and innovation campus in Chennai.
Under the agreement, KLA plans to invest up to $400 million (around ₹3,600 crore) over the next 10 years. This investment highlights the company’s long-term strategy to strengthen India’s role as a key center for R&D, software development, and AI-driven semiconductor innovation.
The proposed campus will span 12 acres and is expected to become one of KLA’s largest innovation hubs globally, expanding on its existing Chennai operations. With a projected built-up area of up to 1.5 million square feet in phases, the facility will focus on advanced engineering and research activities and is anticipated to create as many as 4,000 jobs over the coming decade.
“KLA’s decision to establish their new R&D and innovation campus in Tamil Nadu reinforces the state’s role in the global semiconductor value chain,” said Dr. T.R.B. Rajaa, Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion & Commerce. “We welcome KLA’s long-term commitment and continue to support investments that create high-quality jobs, build advanced technology capabilities, and further strengthen Tamil Nadu’s position as a preferred destination for global innovation.” The MoU was signed between KLA and the Government of Tamil Nadu in the presence of Thiru M.K. Stalin, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu; Thiru Udhayanidhi Stalin, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu; Dr. T.R.B. Rajaa, Hon’ble Minister for Industries; Thiru N. Muruganandam, IAS, Chief Secretary to Government; Dr. Darez Ahamed, IAS, MD & CEO, Guidance Tamil Nadu; Shri. Arun Roy IAS, Industry Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu; Bobby Bell, EVP, Head of Government Relations, KLA; and Dominic David, President, KLA India.
Once opened, the planned R&D and innovation campus is intended to serve as KLA’s flagship innovation hub in Chennai, expanding on decades of growth in the region.
“India has been a critical part of KLA’s global growth story for over two decades,” said Dominic David, President, KLA India. “This MoU continues our long-term vision to scale India as a global centre for AI and software-led semiconductor innovation. We expect the planned Chennai campus to extend our existing R&D capabilities, strengthen collaboration across global teams, and provide broader support to customers.”
