In a significant boost to India's defence capabilities, Odisha-based startup IG Drones has secured a substantial contract from the Indian Army to supply domestically developed drones. The company will provide two types of drones: indigenously developed VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) and FPV (First-Person View).  This move aligns with India's efforts to strengthen national security and reduce dependence on foreign components in defence systems, particularly in light of recent security concerns along international borders.

The agreement aligns with the Indian government’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, which focus on self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing. IG Drones has developed its drone platforms to specifically address the operational challenges faced by the Indian Army, including high-altitude terrains and urban warfare scenarios.

The VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) drones are designed to function in rugged environments without requiring conventional runways, making them highly adaptable for challenging terrains. Meanwhile, FPV (First-Person View) drones provide real-time reconnaissance, improving the Army’s ability to gather intelligence, conduct surveillance and enhance border security.

India’s drone industry is poised for substantial growth, with estimates projecting a market value of $13 billion by 2030. IG Drones aims to play a key role in this expansion, bringing technological advancements such as 5G-enabled solutions to strengthen India’s position in the global drone ecosystem.

Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, CEO of IG Drones, expressed strong confidence in the company’s ability to provide secure and reliable drone systems. Meanwhile, Major General RC Padhi emphasised how crucial these drones are in enhancing operational effectiveness to address emerging security challenges.

In the past three years, the number of drone start-ups in India has more than doubled to 398, surpassing China’s 298. Government initiatives, such as the Drone Shakti scheme, have played a key role in driving growth within the sector.

"IG Drones' commitment to excluding Chinese components from their platforms addresses critical national security concerns while demonstrating India's growing capabilities in advanced defence technology manufacturing," the company stated.

India's strategic partnership is set to revolutionise its defence modernisation efforts, highlighting the vital importance of homegrown technology in safeguarding national security. It marks a significant new chapter in India's defence journey.