Defense technology startups in India are rapidly emerging, developing cutting-edge solutions tailored to the nation's security needs. These startups are focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI), drone technology, high-tech surveillance systems, and automated defense platforms.
New Delhi: India is transitioning from being solely an importer of defense equipment to a global manufacturer of defense technologies. The 'Make in India' initiative and the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) campaign have fueled this growth, with startups emerging as a significant force in the defense technology sector. These burgeoning Indian defense startups are not only creating advanced technologies but also equipping the Indian Army and paramilitary forces with state-of-the-art solutions.
Between 2019 and 2023, India was the world's largest arms importer, but this picture is changing. Indian startups are providing stiff competition to foreign alternatives in the manufacturing of drones, underwater robotics, AI-based surveillance, and smart weapons. Let's explore five Indian defense startups propelling India's defense capabilities to new heights.
1. Garuda Aerospace – Equipped with the all-weather 'Trishul' drone
- Founded: 2015
- Headquarters: Chennai
- Founder: Agnishwar Jayaprakash
Garuda Aerospace is a leading Indian multi-purpose drone startup developing advanced drones for surveillance, disaster management, and agriculture. Their most notable product, 'Trishul,' provides real-time data during border surveillance, emergencies, and natural disasters.
The company received $22 million in Series-A funding in February 2023 and ₹25 crore in bridge funding in October 2023. It is now planning to expand its products to 50 countries.
2. ideaForge – The Indian 'eye' in the sky
- Founded: 2007
- Headquarters: Mumbai
- Founders: Ankit Mehta, Ashish Bhat, Rahul Singh, Vipul Joshi
ideaForge is one of India's oldest UAV companies. Its drones are used operationally by the Indian Army, BSF, and police forces. A recent surge of 25.71% in its share price during Indo-Pak tensions highlights its impact and reliability.
While the company reported a loss of ₹13.7 crore in the September 2024 quarter, its revenue showed a year-on-year growth exceeding 56%.
3. Sagar Defence Engineering – Strengthening India's underwater capabilities
- Founded: 2015
- Headquarters: Mumbai
- Founder: Nikunj Parashar
This startup specializes in manufacturing unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) and underwater vehicles (UUVs) for the Indian Navy. Sagar Defence, in collaboration with DRDO, has also developed India's first underwater-launched UAV.
Recently, the startup forged a strategic partnership with Liquid Robotics, a Boeing subsidiary, aiming to enhance maritime surveillance capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region with advanced technologies. This will significantly aid the Indian Navy in surveillance and intelligence gathering.
4. Flying Wedge – Expertise in indigenous bomber drones
- Founded: 2022
- Headquarters: Bengaluru
- Founder: Suhas Tejaskande
Flying Wedge has quickly established itself in the defense technology sector. This startup manufactures advanced, autonomous weapons and systems capable of precision strikes. Significantly, it became the first private Indian company to receive a government certificate for drone technology from the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation), showcasing the reliability and advancement of its technology.
In 2024, it launched India's first indigenous bomber UAV, the FWD-200B, priced at approximately ₹25 crore. This aircraft is capable of long-range, pilotless operations.
5. EyeROV – Underwater 'detectives' combating maritime threats
- Founded: 2016
- Headquarters: Kochi
- Founders: Johns T. Mathai, Kannappa Palaniappan
EyeROV is India's first underwater drone startup, whose ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) are being utilized by the Indian Coast Guard and DRDO. These ROVs are proficient in maritime security, vessel inspection, and survey operations. The company received ₹10 crore in pre-Series A funding in August 2024 and is now planning to expand into international markets.
Strengthening India's Self-Reliant Defense Policy
Government initiatives like iDEX (Innovation for Defence Excellence) and TDF (Technology Development Fund) not only provide funding and technical guidance to these startups but also facilitate direct collaboration with DRDO and the armed forces. Furthermore, relaxed FDI norms and the 'Make in India' policy have paved the way for foreign partnerships.
