AI hardware finds new ground in Kochi through SFO Technologies and Smart IOPs

The growing demand for artificial intelligence is ushering in interest in high-performance computing and advanced hardware. As AI applications become more complex, reliable infrastructure is increasingly important to support the processing power they require.

High-end AI hardware can support a range of applications, from data-intensive computing and machine learning to research and enterprise use. Developments in this space are also contributing to a broader conversation around the infrastructure needed to support the next phase of AI adoption.

As AI continues to develop, access to advanced computing infrastructure is likely to become an increasingly important part of technology ecosystems across India.


In the light of this scenario, SFO Technologies, the flagship electronics arm of the NeST Group, has partnered with US-based Smart IOPS to produce specialised AI data storage hardware at its Kochi facility, marking a major step forward for local high-tech manufacturing.

Through the tie-up, SFO has integrated Smart IOPS’ proprietary ‘TruRandom’ controller technology into its production lines. The move allows SFO to build high-performance Solid State Drives (SSDs)—the fast, reliable storage components needed to run heavy Artificial Intelligence workloads, data centers, and supercomputers.

While India’s electronics industry has grown through device assembly, making AI-grade hardware requires far greater precision, complex circuit design, and intense thermal control. SFO’s local manufacturing of these drives signals a shift toward producing critical computing tech right from Kochi.

“We are proud to partner with Smart IOPS in bringing advanced storage technology manufacturing to India, in alignment with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative,” said Dr N. Jehangir, Chairman and Managing Director of NeST Group. “This achievement reflects SFO Technologies’ commitment to pioneering advanced design and manufacturing, while supporting India’s emergence as a trusted global hub for AI infrastructure.”

Radhakrishnan Nair, co-founder of Smart IOPS, added that manufacturing the controller in Kochi shows India can now provide the reliable, high-precision supply chain essential for world-class AI computing.

The partnership strengthens India’s position in the global semiconductor ecosystem while giving international tech companies a dependable manufacturing base in Asia.

As the semiconductor industry continues to expand, investments in advanced manufacturing and technology infrastructure are becoming vital. Such developments can support greater capacity, strengthen supply chains, and create opportunities for the wider technology ecosystem.