India's defence startups show strong promise in homegrown tech
During India's recent Operation Sindoor, few realised that some of the high-tech equipment they used came from homegrown startups.
From Bharat Dynamics' missile systems to Solar Industries' loitering munitions and Paras Defence's electronics and drone components, Indian-built platforms played a decisive role. ideaForge's SWITCH UAV and NETRA V2, already in use by the armed forces, were joined by Alpha Design's SkyStriker and NewSpace Research's drone swarms showcasing India's growing capability in next-gen warfare.
It was a turning point in India's defence story: a bold declaration that the future of warfare in India is being engineered in labs within the country.
A wave of ambitious startups, powered by government-backed initiatives and innovation incentives, is clearly redefining India's defence ecosystem. From drones and AI-powered surveillance to lightweight ballistic gear, these companies are helping India reduce its import dependence, and in some cases, outpacing traditional suppliers in speed, cost, and customisation.
These startups are not just plugging critical defence gaps; they're redefining the very concept of strategic preparedness. Once seen as supporting players, companies like Tata Advanced Systems (TAS), Paras Defence & Space Technologies, and IG Drones, among others, are now at the forefront of India's military modernization. TAS, for instance, is partnering with Airbus to manufacture the C-295 military transport aircraft at India's first private aircraft plant in Vadodara.
Beyond frontline deployments, the Drone Federation of India with over 550 companies and 5,500 pilots, is steering India toward its goal of becoming a global drone hub by 2030. IG Drones provides R&D, manufacturing, and field services to both the military and government agencies, exemplifying how private players are powering this transformation.
The government's proactive policies have been instrumental in nurturing this ecosystem. The Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative, launched in 2018, aims to foster innovation by providing financial support to startups and MSMEs. As of February 2025, the Ministry of Defence has cleared procurement of 43 items worth over Rs2.4 billion from iDEX-supported entities, reflecting a significant commitment to indigenous solutions.
Over 1,000 defence tech startups have sprouted across the country, propelled by government initiatives like iDEX and strategic partnerships with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). These startups are at the forefront of developing cutting-edge technologies, ranging from autonomous drones to advanced missile systems.
Furthermore, the Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC) under iDEX have presented numerous opportunities for startups to address specific defence needs. The 13th edition, launched in October 2024, featured seven challenges from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, encouraging startups to develop innovative solutions.
India's defence exports have witnessed a meteoric rise, too, reaching an all-time high of Rs236.22 billion in FY 2024-25, a 34-fold increase over the past decade. This surge is indicative of the global recognition of India's defence capabilities and the quality of its indigenous technologies.
States like Uttar Pradesh are becoming pivotal in this growth story. The Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor has attracted investments worth Rs284.75 billion, with significant developments like the inauguration of a BrahMos missile manufacturing unit in Lucknow.
India's defence startup ecosystem symbolizes the nation's resolve to achieve strategic autonomy and technological self-reliance. With continued policy support, investment, and a focus on innovation, these startups are poised to not only bolster national security but also establish India as a global hub for defence technology.
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