By Anindita Nayak
Bhubaneswar, 8 May
India sees defense start-ups as crucial for enhancing innovation and achieving self-reliance in the defense sector. While state-owned entities will continue to dominate defense procurement, start-ups offer specialized capabilities. New Delhi has introduced policies to support its growth, aiming to revitalize India’s defense industry and advance defense technology. With proper nurturing, these start-ups could become pivotal in supplying advanced technologies to the armed forces, aligning with India’s goal of defense self-sufficiency.
We curate five leading military-tech startups in India, which are doing pioneering work in the sector.
- NewSpace Research and Technologies
NewSpace Research & Technologies (NRT), established in 2017 in Bengaluru, offers a range of aerospace services, including industrial UAVs, collective robotics, navigation systems, AI modules, and simulation services. Recently, they achieved a milestone by completing a record-breaking 24 -hour plus flight test of their High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS) prototype. This success positions India as a potential leader in extended-endurance UAV development. The solar-powered prototype surpassed expectations, paving the way for the development of a larger model capable of 90-day missions at high altitudes. NRT plans further endurance trials before advancing to the full-scale version. The Indian Navy has expressed interest in this technology, recognizing its potential for long-endurance surveillance and communication. The estimated development cost for the full-scale model is Rs 450 crore, with the Indian Navy as a major potential user.
- Optimized Electrotech
Optimized Electrotech, established in 2017 in Ahmedabad, specializes in manufacturing electro-optics-based video surveillance systems for both defense and civilian sectors. Their products cover a wide range of the electromagnetic spectrum, enabling applications such as border surveillance, smart city monitoring, satellite-based imaging, and airport security. They cater to strategic and commercial buyers, offering advanced surveillance solutions with features like adaptability to changing light conditions and long-range capabilities. It integrates AI and Electro-Optic surveillance systems for comprehensive surveillance. Features like immunity to changing light conditions, long-range capabilities in low light, and environment resistance make their offerings suitable for critical applications in border security, weapons guidance, and asset protection. It has raised $6.34 million across four funding rounds. They have applied for four patents, with two already granted, showcasing their commitment to innovation.
- Tata Advanced Systems
Tata Advanced Systems, established in 2007 in Delhi, is a prominent provider of unmanned aerial security patrolling and reconnaissance solutions. Their product range includes UAVs, missile systems, radar, night vision devices, and command & control systems, with services extending to homeland security such as security advisory, system integration, and operations & maintenance. The company has received numerous awards for its contributions to the aerospace and defense sectors, including the “Best International Transition” Award from the American Helicopter Society and the “Best Joint Venture” by India – Aerospace and Defense Awards. TASL is poised to become India’s first private manufacturer of a military aircraft in collaboration with Airbus, producing 40 Airbus C295 tactical airlifters to replace the aging fleet of Avro Hawker Siddeley HS-748 twin-turboprop aircraft in service with the Indian Air Force since the 1960s. TASL’s business arms include a focus on export to global defense companies, manufacturing wings, fuselage, and empennage for Boeing, Airbus, and Lockheed. This endeavor marks TASL as the second entity, after the government-owned HAL, to manufacture large aircraft in the private sector, showcasing its industrial excellence and commitment to advancing India’s aerospace and defense capabilities.
- Tonbo Imaging
Tonbo Imaging, founded in 2003 and headquartered in Bengaluru, is a leading provider of real-time vision processing systems with a funding of $23.9 million. The company designs builds, and deploys advanced imaging and sensor systems for military reconnaissance and security of critical government and industrial establishments. Their products offer day and night vision capabilities with real-time interpretation of battlefield environments, as well as sensing capabilities for surveillance and automobile collisions. Tonbo Imaging specializes in designing innovative micro-optics, lower-power electronics, and real-time vision processing for various applications including military, critical infrastructure, and unmanned reconnaissance. They supply advanced electro-optics systems to over 25 countries, including India’s defense and home ministries, and provide night-vision technology and equipment to enhance security. Their product range includes advanced night-vision cameras, fire control systems, and drone reconnaissance using thermal imaging. Tonbo Imaging is notable for supplying its products to organizations like CRPF, NSG, and the Army Northern Command, highlighting its significance in the defense and security sectors.
- Axio
Axio, founded in 2008 and based in Ahmedabad, is a developer of biomaterials-based medical devices primarily focused on wound care. It has raised funding of $20.6 million so far. Its flagship product, Axiostat, is a hemostat used to stop bleeding in surgeries and trauma situations. Axio Biosolutions specializes in devices for pre-hospital, intra-operative, and post-operative clinical needs, particularly for trauma, surgical, and chronic wounds. Axiostat, India’s first FDA-approved wound care product, is a hemostatic dressing used for controlling bleeding in gunshot wounds and blast injuries. Additionally, they offer MaxioCel, a next-generation wound dressing designed to heal acute and chronic wounds. Axiostat has received recognition from the World Health Organization as one of the top 50 medical innovations and has won awards such as Frost & Sullivan’s Entrepreneurial Company of the Year and the Global Health & Pharma award for best wound care products. Backed by Accel Partners and IDG Ventures, Axio has gained significant traction in the defense sector, supplying its products to over 70 battalions of the Indian Army and various paramilitary forces. Their products provide a cost-effective solution compared to imported alternatives, addressing the acute shortage of hemostats faced by defense forces. Axio’s progress includes collaborations with army units, paramilitary forces like the BSF, and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, contributing to India’s self-reliance in defense technology.
