Drone - News & Announcements

Skye Air Drone Delivery

Skye Air Mobility Got USD 9 Million Funding to Scale Hyperlocal Drone Delivery Network

Skye Air Mobility has raised USD 9 million in a Series B funding round led by IAN Alpha Fund. There was also participation from AVNM Ventures, Faad Capital, Bajaj Capital etc. The funding will be used by the company to expand its hyperlocal drone delivery network and strengthen its autonomous logistics infrastructure as it looks to scale operations across major cities. India’s last-mile logistics market reached USD 6.5 billion and is projected to grow to USD 24 billion by 2033, according to a market report. With mounting demand for faster and more effective deliveries, drone-enabled logistics is a promising solution. Skye Air Mobility is building a drone-based delivery network integrating autonomous drones with airspace management systems and ground-based logistics infrastructure. The company has completed over 3.6 million autonomous deliveries in just over 2 years, while eliminating more than 1,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Its drones can carry payloads of up to 10 kg, allowing use cases ranging from e-commerce and pharma deliveries to industrial supply chains. The CEO of Skye Air Mobility said that the capital will be used to deepen the physical AI stack and connect autonomous drones, intelligent airspace management through Skye UTM, and AI-powered ground robotics into a single, seamless delivery chain. A key component of Skye Air’s system is its network-driven delivery architecture, which integrates drones with ground logistics through a hub-pod-walker model designed for dense urban environments. The company also operates Skye UTM, an AI-powered aerial traffic management platform allowing coordinated drone operations across urban airspace. The company currently works with enterprise customers, including Blue Dart Express, Shiprocket, Flipkart, Tata 1MG, Zepto and Frido, across e-commerce, healthcare and supply chain logistics. With the new funding, Skye Air plans to expand beyond Delhi-NCR into Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, and Kolkata, while further strengthening its drone operations and autonomous logistics technology. Source: Business Line

Saheel Singh 12 Mar 2026

Indegenous Drone Autonomous Drones

DRDO's Ghatak Combat Drone Programme Gathers Pace; 60 Units Planned

India’s indigenous stealth flying-wing combat drone programme received a boost, with the Defence Procurement Board of the Defence Ministry recommending that the proposal to procure 60 Ghatak combat drones, currently under development by DRDO, be approved. The programme is waiting for approval from the Defence Acquisition Council. Ghatak is a stealth drone, based on a flying-wing configuration. It is intended for low radar cross-section and internal weapon carriage. Once operational, Ghatak could participate in deep-strike missions to hit high-value targets without risking pilots' lives. Operating autonomously or alongside manned aircraft, it could also destroy enemy air defences, such as radar stations and missile systems and strike strategic infrastructure with precision-guided munitions. In November, while disclosing that the Indian Air Force had drawn up a technology and capability road map titled “Vision 2047”, Chief of the Air Staff A P Singh had said unmanned systems will not fully replace manned fighter jets in the near future. However, he emphasized that the Air Force fully backed the Ghatak UCAV programme. On December 15, 2023, DRDO conducted a flight trial of the “Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator”, described in an official release as an indigenous high-speed flying-wing UAV. The demonstrator was a precursor to the Ghatak UCAV. The trial, carried out in a tailless configuration at the Aeronautical Test Range in Karnataka’s Chitradurga, was described as marking India’s entry into an “elite club of states to have mastered the controls for the flying-wing technology”. The drone, designed and developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment, also demonstrated autonomous landing without the requirement for ground radars, infrastructure or pilot intervention, allowing takeoff and landing from any runway with surveyed coordinates. The drone’s maiden flight took place in July 2022. The prototype is made of an indigenously developed carbon composite material, with the structure laden with sensors for health monitoring. Source: Business Standard

Saheel Singh 10 Mar 2026

AquaAirX Autonomous Systems Bengaluru

AVATAAR: India’s Drone That Flies in the Air and Dives Underwater

AquaAirX Autonomous Systems, a Bengaluru-based deep-tech startup, has developed a drone that can operate in both air and water. The drone is called AVATAAR and is intended for surveillance and defence-related missions. The company wants to build autonomous machines capable of operating in oceans, rivers and coastal areas. The company came into the limelight recently after raising INR 12.5 crore in a seed funding round. It received the funding from Rainmatter, Zerodha's investment arm. Rainmatter generally supports new technology-driven ideas and startups developing advanced solutions. Drone in Air and Underwater The drone is different from others because it can move between land and water. It can take off like a quadcopter and fly to the mission's location. After reaching the water surface, it can land and then immerse itself to perform underwater tasks. This makes it very useful for monitoring coastal areas and the ocean. It can monitor the happenings above and below the water. The drone can smoothly switch between air and water operations without any external help. The drone has also reached Technology Readiness Level 6, meaning the drone's full working prototype has already been tested in real-world conditions. It shows the machine's transition from lab testing to practical use. Protection Features of the Drone It is not easy to work underwater because seawater can damage equipment. To cope with this issue, the drone is built from rust-resistant carbon fibre. The drone also has special coatings to protect its sensors and electronic systems from salt deposits and underwater debris. It also has a special system that helps it move underwater. This system can create 3D maps of objects underwater.  Consequently, operators can easily inspect pipelines, cables, and other underwater structures. Defence and Rescue Missions The AVATAAR drone can be used for various missions by the armed forces and other agencies. Surveillance is one of its important roles. The drone can monitor ports and berths to find possible threats. It can also be useful for precision loitering and target-acquisition missions. It can also inspect underwater platforms, pipelines, cables and other assets while collecting autonomous data. Alongside defence work, the drone can also assist in search-and-rescue missions. It can help locate people or objects in complex surface and underwater environments. The drone can also support intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. In these missions, the drone can provide instantaneous information throughout littoral and near-shore operations. Source: The Defense Post

Saheel Singh 10 Mar 2026

India Vice President Of India

Vice President of India Launches the Drone Designed by Garuda Aerospace

The Indian Vice President, C.P. Radhakrishnan, has revealed the drone designed precisely for Drone Aided Elephant Darting by Garuda Aerospace, marking a substantial achievement in the use of ‘Made in India’ drones in wildlife conservation and human-wildlife conflict resolution situations. The launch ceremony was held in the presence of the Governor of Kerala, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and the Union Minister, Suresh Gopi. The drone is designed to support the elephant darting process by facilitating aerial-assisted tranquilization with greater accuracy. This not only reduces risks to forest personnel on the ground but also minimizes interference with the elephants in dangerous situations. Garuda Aerospace designed this drone for the Tamil Nadu Forest Department almost 10 years ago. Since then, there has been continuous improvement through innovation to meet the Forest Department's requirements. The latest version of this designed drone is the zenith of this constant process of improvement and upgrade to suit the requirements of the Forest Department. Garuda Aerospace has previously provided more than a few drones to prominent conservation organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund and several Forest Departments across India. Due to the increasing human-elephant conflicts, the government of India continues to seek answers to this problem. Drone-assisted elephant darting offers a more effective, competent and humane solution to this problem. This drone is evidence of Garuda Aerospace’s dedication to using drones for a cause, for serving the nation, to serve the community and to serve the greater good in wildlife conservation, disaster management, agri-industries and the military. Garuda Aerospace is India’s leading Drone tech start-up, disrupting two major multi-billion-dollar sectors: precision agriculture tech and Industry 4.0 upgradation. Garuda Aerospace is asset-light, recession-proof and agnostic and focuses on eliminating labourers in the agricultural field with drones, designing, building and customizing drones. Source: BIS Infotech

Saheel Singh 06 Mar 2026

Defence Drones Drone Defence

India Develops Autonomous Swarm Interceptor 'YAMA' to Counter Drone Attacks

With drones reshaping modern warfare worldwide, India has developed an advanced autonomous swarm interceptor, YAMA. The system is made by the private defence company Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace, which has successfully conducted the first test of India's first autonomous swarm interceptor under its FWD programme. Drones have done a work of note on modern battlefields. From the ongoing tensions between Iran and the US-Israel bloc to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, along with last year's military battle between India and Pakistan, drones were key in surveillance and strikes. This has powered the global demand for anti-drone technologies to new highs. During the Iran, US-Israel confrontation, a key development was that an Iranian drone worth 20,000 dollars evaded a 4-million-dollar US Patriot interceptor. This signalled that future wars might well be decided by who has the more effective and affordable anti-drone defence, rather than just by high-value missile systems. Private Indian Defence Firm Tests 'YAMA' Successfully Concentrating on this fast-changing nature of warfare, Bengaluru-based private defence firm Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace has successfully tested India's first autonomous swarm interceptor. The company has named the interceptor 'YAMA', inspired by the mythological figure Yamaraj. This marks a milestone in India’s defence ecosystem, mainly in the growing participation of private companies in the expansion of high-end military technology. Key features of the 'YAMA' interceptor The 'YAMA' interceptor is specifically designed to neutralize flying warheads and hostile drone swarms. With a cost of just under $10,000 per unit, 'YAMA' offers interception capabilities at up to 100 times the cost of conventional systems. A video has also been released of the successful trial, showing 'YAMA' intercepting drone swarms with precision and destroying them in the air itself.   The officials are of the opinion that this performance demonstrates that low-cost, high-efficiency interception can greatly reinforce India's air defence architecture. Source: India TV

Saheel Singh 06 Mar 2026

Singapore Thakral Corporation

Singapore’s Thakral Group to Manufacture Drone Components in India

Singapore’s Thakral Corporation would commence in-house manufacturing of drone components in May, because of the market's growth potential of USD 11 billion by the end of this decade, up from USD 500 million in 2024. To expand in the enterprise drone space and meet rising demand for industrial and commercial drones, it is exploring the manufacturing of enterprise-grade and specialized drones in India. The Group said it can capture growth in the agricultural drone segment through Bharat Skytech, one of its subsidiaries, which manufactures and supplies drone components to domestic producers. Thakral has a tie-up with the DJI Group   With expansion in mind, Thakral plans to open 20-30 DJI retail stores across India and other South Asian nations in the next 2-3 years, including flagship stores in major cities, starting in 1H2026. The group is capitalizing on India’s drone ecosystem and cited an industry report projecting the country’s drone market to grow from USD 500 million in FY2024 to USD 11 billion by FY2030.   Being the official distributor of Nespresso in India, the company continues to expand the brand’s presence by opening its second boutique at Ambience Mall, Gurugram, in March 2026. Other boutiques and pop-up stores are planned for Mumbai and Bengaluru later this year. These initiatives will further strengthen brand reach and drive revenue growth, said Thakral. Thakral is also driving long-term growth with real estate and healthcare in India The Group has been involved in a 21-acre mixed-use healthcare-led development site in Gurugram, part of the National Capital Region, since 2024. The site, with more than 2.5 million sq. ft. of development potential, will include a hospital, a health and wellness centre, and residential components. Through this initiative, it will establish a mix of recurring income and development revenue. The Group was in advanced discussions with a Tier 1 hospital operator and residential development partners to mitigate operational risks and manage project costs. Considering the scale of the project and its location in a high-growth corridor in the NCR, the Group saw long-term value-creation potential as development progressed. Thakral reported unaudited results for the year ended Dec 31, 2025. Revenue rose 42% year-on-year to SGD 411.3 million, and net profit increased fivefold to an all-time high of SGD 170.9 million. Source: The Tribune

Saheel Singh 27 Feb 2026

Army Drones Military Drones

Indian Army to Induct Dedicated Drone Platoons Across Combat Units

The Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command, Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General on 26 th February 2026, said the Indian Army is raising dedicated 'Ashin' drone platoons across infantry, artillery and armoured regiments to reinforce drone warfare competencies. According to the CO, specialized 'Bhairav' units will be tasked with deep operations in hostile territory, adding that the Army has rationalized its formations to recognize the growing standing of drones in contemporary warfare. He said that drone use is extremely important. Therefore, drone usage is being integrated across all units, right down to the smallest sub-units. The dedicated 'Ashin' drone platoons within infantry battalions have been created and similar specialized platoons will be raised in every regiment. Stressing operational readiness, he said that future conflicts might need swift action to protect troops and conduct precision strikes. These specialized battalions will further enhance the Army’s strike capability and special operations capability.   In the near future, small, agile teams that can operate independently and penetrate deep into enemy territory will be required, and the 'e Bhairav' units will be employed for processes deep inside enemy territories. Lt Gen Katiyar also revealed that most drones on display were manufactured in Western Command workshops. The Western Command has started fabricating drones within the Army itself and is producing them on a large scale. The Western Command understands its operational requirements and technology needs and can build them more efficiently in its workshops. Talking about Operation Sindoor, the Army Commander repeated that India had targeted terrorist bases, and when retaliated against, struck military and air bases in response.   Source: Business Standard

Saheel Singh 27 Feb 2026

Drones Uttar Pradesh

UP Deputy CM Holds Key Engagements in Germany; Promotes Investment & Tech Collaboration

Uttar Pradesh’s Deputy CM, Keshav Prasad Maurya, emphasized the state’s growing economic potential on his visit to Germany. ​He said that the state is quickly becoming India’s second-largest economy because of improved ease of doing business, strengthened law and order and robust infrastructure development. ​ It was also noted that the UP’s growing expressway network, ongoing airport development and emerging industrial corridors are enticing the interest of global investors. ​ Deep bilateral cooperation between Germany and UP across key sectors, such as technological exchange, skill development, and manufacturing, was also discussed. ​ The deputy CM underlined the transformative journey of the state under PM Narendra Modi’s guidance, from a traditional UP to a dynamic enterprise state, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to offer all possible support to international investors seeking opportunities in the region. ​ A strategic meeting with representatives from leading German-Israeli drone and aerospace firms, such as Quantum-Systems GmbH, System Helsing, Dronivo GmbH, SIA Origin Robotics and Aronia. ​ The companies briefed on their know-how in high-altitude drones, advanced aerial surveillance, defence-grade reconnaissance and drones with a range of about 160 kilometres. ​ Their technologies serve Spanish and German armed forces and support applications in precision agriculture, land surveying and disaster management. ​ The Government of Uttar Pradesh is formally inviting German firms to set up manufacturing units and R&D hubs in the state. ​ Details were also shared regarding investment-friendly policies, strong industrial infrastructure, superior logistics connectivity and a large, skilled workforce. ​ Maurya described UP as emerging as India’s leading hub for defence production, aerospace manufacturing and emerging technologies, with drones and unmanned systems forming an important part of future economic and security frameworks. ​ These kinds of investments will create high-skilled jobs for the state's youth while fast-tracking tech-driven growth by integrating the manufacturing of electronics, data, Artificial Intelligence and the drone ecosystem. Both sides reached a positive consensus on lasting collaboration in manufacturing, research, skill development, technical training and technology transfer. ​ This partnership between Germany and UP reinforces India’s aerospace and drone ecosystem and positions the state at the forefront of drone innovation. Source: Times of India

Saheel Singh 25 Feb 2026

Indian Navy Defence Drones

Indian Navy to Get Next-Gen Aerial Target Drones to Boost Air Defence Training

The Defence Ministry has issued a request for information for next-gen expendable aerial target drones as the Indian Navy is on the lookout to improve at-sea training against fast, low-flying threats such as anti-ship missiles and hostile drones. The proposed system, formally designated the Expendable Aerial Target, will be used in live-fire exercises to replicate the speed, flight profile and manoeuvres of contemporary sea-skimming missiles. Unlike reusable drones, these targets will be destroyed during training engagements, offering naval crews with realistic combat scenarios for missile and gun systems. The RFI comes as India’s indigenous target drone programme gathers momentum. The DRDO’s high-speed target drone, Abhyas, has already completed developmental and user trials and entered mass production, marking an important step in expanding domestic capability in this segment. Demanding performance requirements As stated by the RFI, the Navy is on the lookout for a target which can fly at a speed of at least 300 metres per second at low altitude, roughly Mach 0.87, while staying in the air for about an hour. The drone should fly as low as 5 metres above sea level and climb at a rate of at least 20 metres per second. For realistically simulating modern anti-ship threats, the platform must also perform sustained turns of up to 2G. Remote radio control should extend to 100 kilometres from the ground control station. At the same time, the system should also support fully autonomous flight on pre-programmed routes, such as mid-course changes in speed and altitude. The ground control station should be managing at least 6 targets simultaneously. In the event of a data-link failure, the system must be recoverable and consistent with the user’s programme requirements. The drone will have a low radar cross-section by default, with provisions to increase its radar signature using transponders or corner reflectors when needed for training scenarios. For post-engagement analysis, the target should carry an acoustic miss-distance indicator capable of detecting incoming fire, from 20 mm naval guns to surface-to-air missiles, within 10 metres. Operational flexibility is another important requirement. The drone should be launchable from ships or shore facilities using rocket-assisted takeoff and must operate in conditions up to sea state 3 and winds of 30 knots. After ditching at sea, it should be afloat long enough to be recovered by boat or helicopter. The system's service life is about 15 years. Push for indigenization The RFI also underlines India’s broader push for defence self-reliance. The ministry has asked vendors whether the system can be supplied under the “Buy Indian–IDDM” category, which requires over 50% indigenous content, or under the “Buy Indian” category, which requires over 60% local content, in accordance with the provisions of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020. Strengthening Fleet Air Defence The need for these drones arises with the Indian Navy looking to expand its fleet and strengthen operational readiness. Indian warships position a few surface-to-air missile systems, such as the Barak-8, which require periodic live-fire validation against realistic aerial targets. With INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya in service and naval deployments increasing across the Indian Ocean region, upholding crew proficiency in countering fast, low-altitude threats have become a priority. The induction of next-gen expendable aerial targets will significantly enhance the realism and frequency of such training. Source: Bharat Shakti

Saheel Singh 25 Feb 2026

Drones mq9b

MQ-9B AEW: The Drone that Could Transform India’s Airborne Early Warning

US General Atomics is preparing to introduce a new Airborne Early Warning (AEW) variant of its MQ-9B drone. If inducted, this could have a big positive impact on India’s long-range surveillance and air defence capabilities. The CEO of General Atomics Global said the MQ-9B-AEW would be the first high-altitude, long-endurance drone equipped with an airborne early warning radar, a role initially performed by large, crewed AWACS aircraft. What are MQ-9B Drones? These drones have long battery life, can fly at substantial altitudes, and are designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, as well as precision strike missions. They have an in-air time of more than 30 hours, operate at more than 40,000 feet, and cover vast maritime and land areas. India has already signed a USD 3 billion deal to obtain 31 MQ-9B drones from General Atomics for tri-service use. The future AEW variant will integrate early warning radar onto the same long-endurance platform, efficiently turning the drone into a flying surveillance node which can detect aircraft, drones and missile threats over extended ranges. Airborne early warning systems operate as airborne radar stations, tracking threats and transmitting data to commanders in real time. By mounting these systems on an unmanned drone rather than a large aircraft, militaries can achieve longer endurance, lower operational costs and reduced risk to personnel.   The CEO of the company said that modern conflict “rewards speed, integration and command clarity,” adding that drones help “shorten the sense-decide-act loop” by offering incessant, high-quality intelligence. However, he cautioned that drones are not decisive on their own. “What they actually do is compress time. They expose movements that were hidden and make it harder for any force to manoeuvre without being detected. He emphasised the requirement for a layered architecture, from small tactical drones near the front lines to medium ISR platforms and long-endurance systems operating over land and sea, backed by communications networks, electronic warfare protection and counter-drone capabilities. “The prospect in India is not just to build platforms. It is to build an ecosystem, components, payload integration, software, training and sustainment. If those basics are in place, India will be more than a customer; it will be a strategic hub,” The CEO said, referring to General Atomics’ partnership with Larsen & Toubro to manufacture drone components in India. Source: Money Control

Saheel Singh 24 Feb 2026

Registered Drones Drone Didi Scheme

India Currently has More Than 38,500 Registered Drones, due to the Growing Drone Ecosystem

The adoption of drones in India is on the rise; as a result, the total number of registered drones in the country crossed 38,500 and there are 39,890 certified drone pilots as of February 2026. There are more than 240 approved training organizations present in India, providing skilled drone pilots and maintenance professionals. This rising acceptance of drones reflects the maturation of a complete ecosystem, including manufacturers, software and component developers, service providers, training institutions, certified pilots, start-ups, research organizations, and digital platforms operating within a unified regulatory framework. Drones are now used across sectors such as agriculture, land and property surveys, infrastructure monitoring, disaster assessment and delivery, demonstrating their potential to improve competence, transparency and precision in governance. A total of 3.28 lakh villages were surveyed using drones across the country under the SVAMITVA Scheme. With initiatives supporting women's entrepreneurship, rural access, and domestic manufacturing, the country has developed a coherent framework that drives technological innovation and extensive adoption of drones   To date, women SHGs have received 1,094 drones, including more than 500 units under the Namo DroneDidi initiative , thereby improving productivity and job creation. Indigenous manufacturing, skill development for remote pilots and integration with state and central programmes position India to use drones for infrastructure inspection and national security.   Drones can also monitor the country's railways and highways. With drone adoption in India receiving increasing government support, India will soon become a global leader in drones, developing an ecosystem that balances commercial growth, technological self-reliance, and inclusive development. Source: DD News

Saheel Singh 18 Feb 2026

Swarm Drones Defence Drones

What Are Sheshnaag 150 Swarm Drones? India’s 1,000 km Deep Strike Loitering Munition

The Sheshnaag 150 swarm drone, launched at the World Defence Show 2026 in Riyadh, signals that the Indian government is now thinking way beyond battlefield systems. Developed by NewSpace Research and Technologies, it is a loitering munition capable of striking targets over 1,000 kilometres away.   The system sits somewhere between short-range drones and expensive standoff cruise missiles. This swarm drone system offers deeper penetration and longer endurance and can carry a 25-40 kg warhead, with sufficient destructive capacity to neutralize high-value fixed targets. Built For Distance, Designed for Precision The drone is fairly compact and has a rather simple configuration. The design provides sufficient internal fuel storage and stable cruising with extreme manoeuvrability. This provides a total endurance of about five hours, suggesting a small-engine configuration rather than battery-only propulsion. The precision of the Sheshnaag 150 places it in the guided-missile category rather than the one-way attack drone category. Swarm Logic and Collaborative Attack The Sheshnaag 150 will not operate as a lone projectile. Instead, it forms part of what the company calls a collaborative attack ecosystem. These swarm drones can perform different functions. Some might act as decoys to extend enemy radar emissions. Others might gather intelligence or jam communications. The strike elements then exploit the exposed vulnerabilities. Rather than responding to a single inbound threat, air defence systems must process more than a few simultaneous signatures arriving from different directions and with different profiles. This model is much more than attrition-based drone use; it is about networked, adaptive engagement. In contested environments, where electronic warfare and jamming are predominant, the ability to dynamically re-task assets mid-flight could prove decisive. Where Sheshnag 150 Fits in India’s Strike Matrix? A 1,000-kilometre reach of the drone system enables engagement with command centres, air defence nodes, ammunition depots and airfields without exposing manned aircraft to risk. Its closest international parallels are long-range loitering platforms intended for strategic suppression roles. No procurement contracts have been disclosed as yet. The programme is funded privately and will meet the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces while remaining export-ready. The Sheshnag 150 launch marks a clear shift, representing that India’s private defence sector is now preparing for long-range precision warfare. Source: Times Now

Saheel Singh 17 Feb 2026

Drone Adoption Chhatisgarh

Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh Lag in Drone Adoption as Parliament Data

According to a written reply tabled in the Lok Sabha, drone adoption in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh remains low, despite the government’s repeated claims that it has significantly relaxed India's drone ecosystem. The Government of India introduced and implemented the Drone Rules, 2021, to ensure safe and regulated drone operations, mainly in remote areas. The amendments to the drone rules enacted in 2023 and 2024 simplified compliance by removing the mandatory passport requirement for obtaining Remote Pilot Certificates and by streamlining drone registration and transfer requirements. Most of the Indian airspace falls under the Green Zone, permitting drone operations without prior permission. A Certification Scheme for drones was also introduced in 2022 for creating a global validation framework. To prevent misuse, mandatory UIN, valid RPCs, DGCA-authorized training institutions, and strict restrictions on the carriage of weapons remain in force. Though the state-wise registration data tells a different story for central India. Till January 31, 2026, MP had 480 registered drones, while Chhattisgarh had just 161. Maharashtra leads in the number of registered drones, with 8,210. The total number of registered drones in India is 38,475. The data has raised questions for MP, mainly in light of CM Mohan Yadav's ambitious push to position the state as a "drone hub. “There is a 40% subsidy on drones, capped at Rs 30 crore, and grants of Rs 2 crore for R&D. MP ranks only 13th in India in drone registrations, despite these initiatives. Its position is lower than that of Haryana and Andhra Pradesh. Chhattisgarh also has only 161 registered drones, despite substantial requirements for forest monitoring, disaster response and remote healthcare logistics.   The data indicate that, despite India's liberal regulatory framework for drones, the drone ecosystem development varies across regions. Source: NDTV

Saheel Singh 17 Feb 2026

Defence Drones Kamikaze Drones

IG Defence to Set-Up a Rs 300-Cr Advanced Drone Manufacturing Hub in Odisha

Reinforcing Odisha’s emergence as a key aerospace and defence manufacturing hub, IG Defence, India’s leading indigenous defence technology company, will start a Rs 300-crore cutting-edge multi-drone manufacturing facility in Ganjam district. The project will boost the state’s strategic industrial ecosystem and India’s self-dependence drive in defence production. The proposal was approved by the 144th State Level Single Window Clearance Authority as part of a broader push to expand Odisha’s manufacturing and strategic industrial base. The forthcoming facility will produce advanced drones and related defence technologies, including high-performance tactical and mission-specific drone platforms. By leveraging Odisha’s conventional defence ecosystem, comprising DRDO labs, HAL facilities, the Ordnance Factory network, and the AD Gopalpur test range, the unit will support the expansion of indigenous electronic-warfare drones and other mission-critical defence competencies. India can enhance its safety, security, and national sovereignty by deploying these advanced drones and exporting them to friendly countries. The project will boost the domestic aerospace and defence manufacturing capacity, aligning with the national self-reliance objectives. IG Defence has a reputation for producing drones for real operational environments. Its drone and counter-drone platforms have been used in Operation Sindoor and numerous patented platforms have been inducted by the Indian Navy and Army. There were orders for more than 5,000 FPV Kamikaze Striker drones from several defence forces, which the company has delivered in recent years, underscoring rising confidence in the products. The Odisha facility will further reinforce IG Defence’s national production network and support the scaling of reliable, Made-in-India drones to meet the developing operational requirements of India’s armed forces, while allowing compliant exports that support regional security partnerships. IG Defence’s investment adds impetus to Odisha’s aerospace and defence ecosystem. It supports India’s broader objective of building a resilient, self-reliant defence manufacturing base under the Make in India and Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiatives. Source: United News of India

Saheel Singh 11 Feb 2026

IG Defence Defence Drones

IG Defence says its Fixed-Wing Tactical Drone to Boost India's Modern Battlefield Capabilities

IG Defence, a Drone Technology firm, on 10th February 2026, said its newly patented fixed-wing tactical drone integrates precision strike and surveillance into a single, multipurpose unmanned system, thus strengthening India’s indigenous defence competencies. IG Defence said it has been granted a patent for its Fixed-Wing drone, developed to meet the changing demands of contemporary battlefield operations. Focus on operational readiness is becoming increasingly significant as warfare continues to advance, it said in a statement. Operations are faster, more complex and increasingly driven by technology. The threats are no longer limited to traditional battlefields; they require faster response cycles, heightened situational consciousness and the intelligent use of drones. IG Defence's patented fixed-wing tactical drones having these realities in mind. It enables the armed forces to detect, track and engage targets with precision while reducing the risk to ground personnel. In strenuous environments, this ability to gather intelligence and act swiftly can be decisive. The fixed-wing drone has a longer range, higher endurance and stable performance over long missions. With a 5 kg payload, the drone can have mission-specific munitions or equipment. This flexibility enables the drone to support multiple operational roles, from intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance to precision strike and other strategic tasks. Its lightweight makes it easier to transport. With a negligible logistical footprint, the drone is suitable for missions where speed, precision and adaptability are critical. The patented platform "brings together precision strike, surveillance and terminal engagement in one versatile drone, strengthening India’s indigenous defence capabilities. Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, founder and CEO, IG Defence, said, "This is our way of contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and to building defence competences that India can truly depend on." Source: Business Line

Saheel Singh 11 Feb 2026

Drone Rainfall IIT Roorkee

IIT Roorkee Develops Drone-Led Cloud Seeding Method for Artificial Rain

Scientists at IIT Roorkee have developed a drone-based system to improve artificial rainmaking through cloud seeding. The capability experimental trials were held in collaboration with AccelESG, a Hyderabad-based technology firm. In the early phase, researchers flew drones at an altitude of 100m to evaluate system stability, dispersal mechanisms and data-collection processes. Calcium chloride, a hygroscopic compound that attracts and absorbs moisture from the surrounding air, was used by the researchers. This technology could help alleviate dry spells, improve soil moisture and decrease farmers' dependence on groundwater for irrigation. We have effectively achieved weather-modification results in the lab," said Professor A.S. Maurya, principal investigator from the institute's earth sciences department. The team wants clearances from the Uttarakhand government, other regulatory agencies and local air traffic control authorities for conducting trials at higher altitudes. The permissions are significant for assessing the ability of drone-based cloud seeding under practical conditions, where clouds form at much greater heights. Drone-assisted cloud seeding can address local agricultural challenges, mostly in regions with erratic rainfall. Drones enable precise targeting of cloud systems, reduce operational costs relative to aircraft-based seeding and facilitate the rapid disposition of short-lived clouds. Using this system, rainfall can be induced over a 10km area via drone operations, making it a suitable method for district- or block-level agricultural interventions. Additional trials and ongoing monitoring are important before this system is used in large-scale deployment. The initial results are promising for supplementing natural rainfall through scientific intervention. Source: Times of India

Saheel Singh 05 Feb 2026

Drone Startups Drone Technology

Drone Startups Expect Export Tailwinds from the India-US Trade Deal

For Indian drone startups, the India–US trade deal is a substantial opportunity to scale exports and reinforce their presence in global markets. Industry leaders highlighted enhanced access to advanced components, manufacturing know-how, and global supply chains as key benefits of the agreement. The senior vice president at IG Defence said the trade deal could act as a catalyst for the industry if it is pursued with a "lasting, capability-led approach instead of interim import dependence". Improved access to cutting-edge components, manufacturing knowledge and global supply chains will help Indian companies fast-track their journey from assembly to full-spectrum design, engineering and innovation. This also fortifies export pathways, essential if Indian drone manufacturers want to compete on the global stage. The vice president cautioned that the agreement supports the requirement to deepen domestic competencies across areas, including electronics, propulsion systems, secure software and testing infrastructure. Drone maker Idea Forge’s CFO said the reduction in US tariffs on Indian goods to around 18% brings predictability and renewed impetus to bilateral trade. He said that the US announcement of a revised tariff of approximately 18% on Indian goods has given the trade relationship between the two nations fresh momentum. This agreement will boost trade between India and the US and provide predictability, scale, and quality improvements for the industry. It will mitigate supply chain disruptions and rising costs, thereby creating value. "Today, technology rules how the world functions, and such trade recalibrations create new prospects for companies like ideaForge for expansion in the world’s largest technology services and hardware market. For drone companies, in particular, the agreement creates new opportunities to integrate into global supply chains, surge exports and co-develop next-gen products with international partners. Source: Money Control

Saheel Singh 05 Feb 2026

Make In India Atamnirbhar Bharat

Defence Gets Big Firepower Amidst Pakistan, China Threats

A total of INR 63,733 crore is owed to aircraft and aeroengines, and INR 25,023 crore to the naval fleet. The Defence Ministry has received a 15% increase in its budget, with capital expenditure rising from INR 1.80 lakh crore in the previous year to INR 2.19 lakh crore in FY 2026-27, a 21.84% increase. Recently, India has emphasized on air power. The promotion of indigenous weapons and defence equipment production under the 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' is now clearly visible. The increased defence budget will boost indigenous defence production, enable the acquisition of contemporary weapon systems, and strengthen the armed forces' operational capabilities. Strengthening India's Air Power: The Current Fleet of 36 Rafale Fighter Jets The Defence Ministry is currently working on several large and important projects and will launch new schemes. The Indian Air Force currently operates 36 Rafale fighter jets, which have significantly improved its operational capabilities. The plans to procure additional Rafale jets are also under consideration to meet the Air Force's requirements. UAVs' Role Clarified After Operation Sindoor The Russia-Ukraine war and Operation Sindoor have highlighted the power of air power for India.   It was a firsthand experience for India when drones were used extensively to demolish the Pakistani terrorist camps. This has underlined their increasing role in contemporary warfare. Drones are increasingly used for surveillance, gathering information and precision strikes. The expansion of drone manufacturing and related technologies is a top priority for the Indian government. Many projects are underway, including the acquisition of MQ-9B drones, the development of indigenous drones and the deployment of counter-drones. The government wants to increase domestic production, indigenous weapons production and exports. Following Operation Sindoor, tensions with Pakistan have increased and there are also border challenges with China. Defence Secretary Welcomes the Decision The Defence Secretary welcomed the Budget 2026-27. The allocation for defence pensions has also augmented, with the government assigning INR 1,71,338.22 crore for this purpose. Source: Economic Times

Saheel Singh 03 Feb 2026

Indian Army Defence Drones

Indian Army Ties up with US Drone Company that Made its Name in the Ukraine Conflict

A deal was signed by the Indian Army with Shield AI, an American defence technology company, to procure the V-BAT unmanned aerial system, which will be mass-produced in India. Shield AI’s V-BAT is a Group 3 UAV that can take off and land vertically without runways or launch infrastructure. With a heavy-fuel engine, the aircraft has an air time of more than 12 hours and operates in environments with weak communications and GPS signals. Under the agreement, Shield AI will offer V-BAT VToL drones, along with licenses to its exclusive autonomy software, Hivemind. The software will be integrated into the aircraft and made accessible to select Indian partners, allowing local expansion of autonomous military systems tailored to India’s operational requirements. “India’s selection of V-BAT and Hivemind echoes a clear understanding of the kind of strong, expeditionary autonomy contemporary militaries now need,” Sarjan Shah, Shield AI’s MD for India, said in a statement. He added that the aircraft’s ability to operate without runways and deliver long-endurance intelligence made it well-suited to India’s varied geography. The company has partnered with India’s JSW Defence, which, in December 2025, began construction of a manufacturing facility at EMC Maheshwaram, Hyderabad. This USD 90 million investment will enable significant production of V-BATs in India to meet the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces and establish it as a global production hub. Before India, the company signed a deal with the Japanese Navy on 22 January, calling the Japanese Navy “a significant ally in the Indo-Pacific region and critical in the regional deterrence efforts”. From Ukraine to the Middle East Shield AI is part of a new generation of US defence startups focused on AI and autonomy rather than traditional weapons manufacturing. The company’s first product, a small autonomous quadcopter named Nova, was designed to enter buildings and tunnels ahead of soldiers to gather intelligence. While that system saw usage in West Asia, it was used in October 2023 by Israeli forces to explore Hamas’ tunnel network below the Gaza Strip. The V-BAT has gained recognition, in part due to its performance in Ukraine. Shield AI spent much of 2024 integrating Hivemind into the aircraft. According to the company, V-BAT drones have conducted dozens of missions in Ukraine, helping recognize hundreds of targets. In 2025, the drones executed more than 35 missions and recognized over 200 Russian targets in the warzone. The company now operates across the US, Europe, West Asia and the APAC and produces aircraft at a production site outside Dallas. The partnership with India marks an international expansion to date, combining foreign technology transfer with local manufacturing and software development. The deal aligns with broader efforts to modernize its military and reduce dependence on imports, mainly in unmanned systems and AI, reshaping modern warfare. Source: The Week

Saheel Singh 29 Jan 2026