New Delhi: The Indian Army has awarded a major contract to IG Drones for the supply of indigenously developed VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) and FPV (First-Person View) drones, to strengthen national security.
This development makes a key milestone in India’s drive for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Make in India and Atmanrbhar Bharat initiatives.
The move comes amid rising security threats along international borders and growing concerns over the vulnerabilities posed by foreign components in critical defence equipment.
IG Drones’ platforms have been specifically designed to meet the unique operational challenges faced by the Indian Army, including high-altitude terrains and urban warfare scenarios.
These advanced systems also align with the Army’s requirement for drones free from Chinese-origin components, following incidents such as the hijacking of an Indian Army drone near the Pakistan border.
Cutting-edge Technology for Modern Warfare
The VTOL drones provided by IG Drones offer unmatched flexibility, capable of vertical take-offs and landings in rugged terrains where conventional runways are unavailable. This makes them ideal for mountainous regions and urban conflict zones.
Meanwhile, FPV drones deliver real-time, first-person visuals, enabling precise tactical reconnaissance and intelligence gathering while minimizing risks to personnel. These drones are expected to bolster the Army’s capabilities in counter-infiltration, border surveillance, and rapid response operations.
Highlighting the significance of this contract, Mr. Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, Founder and CEO of IG Drones, stated: “This partnership with the Indian Army underscores their confidence in our secure, indigenous solutions. By integrating innovation with advanced technology, we aim to empower our forces to meet modern security challenges. We also aspire to elevate India’s drone ecosystem globally with 5G-enabled solutions and advanced surveillance systems.”
Major General RC Padhi, Senior Vice President (R&D) at IG Drones, added: “These indigenously developed drones are tailored for high-altitude and tactical operations. They will enhance surveillance, intelligence, and border security, reflecting our commitment to self-reliant defence solutions.”
Rise of India’s Drone Sector
India’s drone industry has witnessed exponential growth, driven by defence, agriculture, and logistics demands. The ban on drone imports and schemes like Drone Shakti has further accelerated this trend. Recent figures indicate that India now hosts over 390 drone startups, doubling in just three years and surpassing major players like China in terms of new enterprises.
The market, projected to reach $13 billion by 2030, is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21 per cent from 2022. Drone production is expected to scale rapidly, with units increasing from approximately 10,800 in 2024 to over 61,000 by 2029.
The Indian Army’s procurement of IG Drones’ platforms sets a benchmark for the role of indigenous technology in addressing national security challenges. By aligning its offerings with India’s defence vision, IG Drones not only strengthens its partnership with the armed forces but also reinforces the country’s commitment to developing a self-reliant and secure ecosystem.
