Latest news with #ideaForge
Khaleej Times
22-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
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.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
ideaForge Demonstrates UAV Prowess at U.S. Government-Backed Michigan's Uncrewed Triple Challenge
SAN ANTONIO, May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ideaForge Technology Limited, a global leader in drone technology, is proud to be recognised by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), a U.S. government body, to exhibit at the prestigious Uncrewed Triple Challenge (UTC) in Michigan, USA. As part of this recognition, ideaForge was awarded a $10,000 grant to support its participation at the event. The UTC is a first-of-its-kind, state-sponsored event that brings together uncrewed systems across sea, air, and land. Organized in collaboration with the Michigan National Guard, Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Department of Transportation, and the MEDC, the UTC aims to drive innovation in autonomous drone technologies by showcasing next-generation capabilities to a diverse audience of military, state, and local agencies. While ideaForge did not compete in the challenge, its invitation to exhibit underscores the trust and credibility placed in its technology by a prominent U.S. state institution. It also highlights the growing global recognition of India's indigenous UAV capabilities. At UTC, ideaForge showcased its flagship UAV solutions, the SWITCH and NETRA V4 PRO—demonstrating their advanced ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) features, operational endurance, and reliability across demanding mission profiles. These systems are designed for critical applications in defense, homeland security, and emergency response. Ankit Mehta, CEO of ideaForge Technology Limited, said, "We are honoured to receive this grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and to be invited to exhibit at the Uncrewed Triple Challenge. This recognition by a U.S. government body is a strong testament to the credibility, capability, and global relevance of our UAV platforms. We look forward to engaging with stakeholders from across defense and public sectors to demonstrate how ideaForge delivers autonomy and performance for mission-critical operations." Justine Johnson, Chief Mobility Officer, Michigan Economic Development Corporation added, "We are pleased to welcome ideaForge to the Uncrewed Triple Challenge. Their participation represents the spirit of innovation that this event aims to celebrate. ideaForge's UAV platforms will contribute valuable perspectives to our stakeholders and support broader dialogue around the adoption of advanced autonomous systems." ideaForge's presence at the UTC reinforces its expanding international footprint and commitment to delivering indigenous, high-performance drone solutions for defense and enterprise needs. The company continues to strengthen its position as a pioneer in drone innovation, with a focus on mission-critical applications that include defense, security, and enterprise use cases. As part of its growing U.S. presence, ideaForge has also previously announced a strategic collaboration with Skylark Labs and partnership and investment with Vantage Robotics further reinforcing its role in advancing drone technology through collaboration and cross-border innovation. About ideaForge Technology Limited ideaForge is a pioneer and the pre-eminent market leader in the Indian unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) industry. With a mission-first approach, we deliver cutting-edge drones engineered for unmatched performance, autonomy, and reliability, redefining possibilities in security, mapping, surveillance, and disaster response applications across militaries and enterprises. With India's largest operational deployment of indigenous UAVs, an ideaForge drone takes off every 3 minutes, enabling over 6,50,000 successful flights. Ranked 3rd globally among the world's Top Dual-Use Drone Manufacturers by Drone Industry Insights (DRONEII) Global Drone Review 2024, ideaForge continues to set benchmarks in innovation and excellence. Since pioneering India's first VTOL UAVs in 2009, we have expanded with advanced R&D and manufacturing hubs in Navi Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi, and the USA, driving the development of indigenously designed and built solutions. Backed by marquee investors, including Qualcomm, Infosys, Celesta Capital, Florintree, EXIM Bank, and Infina Finance, ideaForge is at the forefront of revolutionizing unmanned systems. Discover more: About Michigan Economic Development Corporation The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state's marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan's economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter. Logo: View original content: SOURCE ideaForge
News18
20-05-2025
- Business
- News18
Defence Stocks Extend Selloff Led By Shipyard Firms, Paras Defence Sinks 5% On Stake Sale
Last Updated: Defence-related stocks witnessed a significant decline on May 20, marking their second straight session of losses; What should investors do? Defence Stocks Decline: Defence-related stocks witnessed a significant decline on May 20, marking their second straight session of losses. The pullback came as investors booked profits after a sharp rally driven by optimism surrounding fresh defence orders and the success of Operation Sindoor. Shipyard and Defence Firm Stocks See Sharp Declines Shares of Cochin Shipyard, ideaForge Technology, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), and other defence-linked firms fell sharply on Tuesday. Cochin Shipyard dropped as much as 6.9% to Rs 1,847.60 on the BSE, while ideaForge lost 6.1% to Rs 536.25. GRSE declined 5.1% to Rs 2,356.05, and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders shed 3.1% to Rs 3,303.20. These losses came on the heels of a weak session on Monday, when stocks like Cochin Shipyard, Mazagon Dock, GRSE, and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) had already retreated up to 4%. Rally Loses Steam After Record Gains Last week's massive surge had been fuelled by investor enthusiasm for India's expanding defence production and export prospects. Between May 9 and 17, Cochin Shipyard and GRSE jumped 41% and 40% respectively, while ideaForge soared 56%. HAL also rose 16% over the same period. However, the current correction suggests that valuations may have run ahead of fundamentals, prompting traders to lock in gains. Paras Defence Slumps After Promoter Stake Sale Paras Defence & Space Technologies fell nearly 5% after its promoters offloaded a 3.3% stake in the company through bulk deals. This comes after the stock had rallied around 55% over the past month. As per NSE data, promoter Sharad Virji Shah sold 9 lakh shares at Rs 1,682.87 apiece. Anish Mehta and Kaajal Harsh Bhansali each sold 2.17 lakh shares at Rs 1,664.62 and Rs 1,662.62, respectively. In total, the promoters sold 13.34 lakh shares. Promoters held a 57.05% stake in the company as of March 2025, with the remaining 42.95% owned by public shareholders. Operation Sindoor Sparked the Surge The recent rally had been driven by the Indian military's showcase of domestic missile and drone technology under 'Operation Sindoor." Between May 9 and 17, the sector added around ₹1.8 lakh crore in market capitalisation, on hopes of large upcoming defence contracts. Antique Stock Broking said it expects significant orders in FY26–27, including six submarines under Project 75(I), three Kalvari-class submarines, P-17B frigates, next-gen corvettes, and smaller naval vessels. Caution on Valuations, But Long-Term Outlook Positive Despite the near-term volatility, analysts remain optimistic about the long-term prospects of the defence sector. VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services, cautioned investors about rich valuations, stating, 'Even though the sector has strong medium-to-long-term potential, some profit booking is justified given the recent surge." Antique Stock Broking projects that the combined order books of Cochin Shipyard, GRSE, and Mazagon Dock could more than triple by FY27. The brokerage maintains a 'buy' rating on GRSE and Mazagon Dock, while assigning a 'hold' rating to Cochin Shipyard due to uncertainty around the timeline and scale of the proposed Indigenous Aircraft Carrier II (IAC-II) project. Disclaimer:Disclaimer: The views and investment tips by experts in this report are their own and not those of the website or its management. Users are advised to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. First Published: May 20, 2025, 12:19 IST
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Operation Sindoor: How India's private sector is arming our military, and why it could transform the future of defence
Operation Sindoor has put a spotlight on India's growing defence strength, especially the rising role of private companies in military technology. A decade ago, India mostly depended on public sector undertakings (PSUs) and foreign imports for defence needs. But now, private firms are leading innovation and becoming key partners in building modern systems for warfare. Firms like Tata Advanced Systems (TAS), Alpha Design Technologies (ADTL), Paras Defence & Space Technologies, ideaForge, and IG Drones are no longer just supporting players, they are helping shape India's military future. TAS, for example, is working with Airbus Spain to make C-295 military transport aircraft at the country's first private aircraft factory in Vadodara. Paras Defence is known for its work in electronic warfare, optics, and drone systems. Alpha Design provides everything from radars to tank parts and satellite equipment. Other big players such as Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Adani Group, and Bharat Forge are also growing their presence in defence. For instance, L&T won contracts worth over Rs 13,000 crore to supply radar and weapon systems. Adani recently opened two new plants to make ammunition and missiles in Uttar Pradesh, aiming to meet 25% of India's small-calibre ammunition needs. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas Prices In Dubai Might Be More Affordable Than You Think Villas In Dubai | Search Ads Get Quote Undo Leading the drone revolution One of the biggest success stories of the private sector has been in drone technology. In the 1990s, India began using Israeli drones like the Heron and Searcher. But the 1999 Kargil War showed how much India needed real-time intelligence from its own systems. Since then, DRDO and private firms have worked to develop Indian drones. By May 2025, India's armed forces were using many home-grown drones. ideaForge's SWITCH UAV and NETRA V2, made with DRDO, have already been deployed. Alpha Design teamed up with Israel's Elbit Systems to build the SkyStriker, a drone that can carry out precise attacks. Solar Industries' Nagastra-1 added to India's strike options, while NewSpace Research provided drone-swarm capabilities for the Air Force. Live Events What's coming next? The development of drones is not slowing down. New platforms are being built for logistics and high-altitude missions, such as Garuda Aerospace's Jatayu and SkyPod for regions like Siachen. Drones like Throttle Aerospace's Raven and AI-based swarm systems from 114AI and NewSpace show how startups are driving the next wave of military technology. The Drone Federation of India, with over 550 companies and 5,500 pilots, is aiming to make India a global drone hub by 2030. IG Drones, which works with the Indian Army and government agencies, is a good example of how private firms are providing services, research, and manufacturing for defence. Big numbers, bigger goals India's defence exports touched nearly Rs 24,000 crore ($2.9 billion) in FY25, and private firms played a huge role. The government wants to double this to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029. The Indian drone market alone could be worth $11 billion by 2030, making up over 12% of the global share. Earlier this month, defence stocks jumped by up to 4% after Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Operation Sindoor and said India must lead in defence innovation with its own technology. 'We have proven our strength in modern warfare,' he said. Policy support fuels growth The success of Operation Sindoor was made possible by government policies that supported private defence production. Since 2021, India has banned imported drones and launched a Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme with Rs 120 crore to boost local manufacturing. In FY24, India's home-grown defence production hit Rs 1.3 lakh crore, and the share of private companies is rising steadily. Initiatives like iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) and SRIJAN (import substitution) are helping startups and companies enter the defence space. Looking ahead: Space is the next frontier The future of defence will involve more AI-powered and autonomous systems, and private firms are well-suited for this challenge. Operation Sindoor showed how a strong partnership between private companies, the public sector, and the military can help India become a high-tech power. Space will be a big part of this journey. India still lags behind countries like the US and China in military satellites, but it is catching up. Companies like Digantara, Pixxel, Dhruva Space, and Ananth Technologies are working on satellite systems and space tech. Earlier this year, three South India-based private firms were chosen to co-develop 31 satellites under the Space-Based Surveillance-3 (SBS-3) programme. This marks the first time private firms are building satellites for strategic military use. With 52 new satellites planned, 21 by ISRO and 31 by the private sector, India's space surveillance capability is set to grow quickly. Inputs from TOI
Time of India
16-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
How private firms are arming our forces
has spotlighted India's evolving military capabilities, revealing the emergence of a robust private defence sector central to the nation's security. A decade ago, public sector undertakings and imported technology dominated India's defence narrative. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Today, the private sector drives innovation, not merely filling gaps. Companies such as Tata Advanced Systems (TAS), Alpha Design Technologies (ADTL), Paras Defence & Space Technologies, ideaForge, and IG Drones have transitioned from being niche players to critical partners in delivering cutting-edge systems for modern warfare. List of drones and other details Pvt push to defence TAS, with its legacy in aerospace and defence integration, offers comprehensive solutions, including radars, missiles and UAV systems, for Indian military. In collaboration with Airbus Spain, it produces the C-295 military transport aircraft at India's first private military aircraft plant in Vadodara, Gujarat. Paras Defence — recognised for its credentials in indigenous design, development and manufacturing — sets benchmarks in electronic warfare, optics and drones. Similarly, Alpha Design provides a range of systems from radars to tank components and satellite payloads. Other conglomerates like Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Adani Group, and Bharat Forge have significantly expanded their defence portfolios. L&T secured contracts worth Rs 13,369 crore for high-powered radar systems and close-in weapons systems. Adani Defence & Aerospace inaugurated two ammunition and missile-manufacturing facilities in the UP defence corridor, aiming to produce 150 million rounds of small-calibre ammunition annually and meeting 25% of India's requirement. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now It's a d(r)one thing The private sector's impact is most visible in drone technology. India's military drone journey began in the 1990s with Israeli UAVs such as the IAI Searcher and Heron. Recognising their strategic value, India started to build its own capabilities. The Kargil War in 1999 highlighted the need for real-time intelligence, prompting DRDO and private firms to accelerate UAV development. Cut to May 2025 and the Indian armed forces now operate a growing fleet of UAVs, with many more in development. Operation Sindoor underscored the central role of indigenous drones, driven by private firms, in India's military doctrine covering tactical and high-altitude intel and reconnaissance platforms. ideaForge's SWITCH UAV and NETRA V2 quadcopter, co-developed with DRDO, has entered service. Alpha Design's partnership with Israel's Elbit Systems produced advanced systems like the SkyStriker loitering munition, enabling precision strikes during Operation Sindoor. Solar Industries' Nagastra-1 bolstered India's tactical strike options, while NewSpace Research & Technologies delivered drone-swarm capabilities to IAF. In the pipeline The development pipeline includes logistics-focused platforms such as Garuda Aerospace's Jatayu, a heavy-lift drone, and SkyPod for high-altitude resupply in terrains like Siachen. Tactical drones, such as Throttle Aerospace's Raven and AI-driven swarm control systems from NewSpace and 114AI demonstrate how Indian startups are shaping defence trends. The Drone Federation of India, representing over 550 companies and 5,500 pilots, has built this ecosystem. It aims to have India as a global drone hub by 2030. IG Drones underlines how the new wave of defence tech firms are specialising in R&D, manufacturing and services. Its collaborations with the Army and other govt bodies integrate private expertise into defence planning and execution. India's defence exports reached nearly Rs 24,000 crore ($2.9 billion) in FY25, with private firms playing a central role. Govt's target of Rs 50,000 crore in exports by 2029 depends on sustained private sector growth. The Indian drone market alone is projected to reach $11 billion by 2030, accounting for over 12% of the global share, signalling opportunities for private firms and strengthening national security. Earlier this month, defence stocks, both public and private, rallied by up to 4% after PM , referencing Operation Sindoor, called for greater military self-reliance. 'We have proven our dominance in new-age warfare,' he stated. 'We must lead in defence innovation through indigenous technology.' Operation Sindoor's success resulted from policy changes supporting private defence manufacturing. Since 2021, the ban on imported drones and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, with a Rs 120-crore outlay, turbocharged local innovation. Indigenous defence production reached Rs 1.3 lakh crore in FY24, with a rising share going to private players. Programmes like iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) and SRIJAN (for import substitution) opened doors for both startups and established firms. Beyond Operation Sindoor The private sector's role continues to evolve, with the future focusing on autonomous, AI-driven systems where private companies excel in talent and agility. Operation Sindoor demonstrated that the fusion of private innovation, public sector support, and military vision enables India to assert itself as a high-tech military power. Space-based capabilities will be a key component of this future. Although India lags the US and China in military satellites, it is moving ahead with firms like Digantara (space situational awareness), Pixxel (Earth observation), Dhruva Space (satellites and ground systems), and Ananth Technologies developing key capabilities. Earlier this year, three private firms based in South India were picked to co-develop 31 satellites under the Space-Based Surveillance-3 (SBS-3) programme, marking the first time private players are building satellites for strategic use. This third phase of the programme, building on previous Cartosat and Risat launches, will enhance India's space surveillance capacity with 52 satellites in GEO (geostationary) and LEO (low Earth orbit). Isro will develop 21, while the private sector will deliver 31.
