Transforming India’s UAV future with indigenous innovation, soldier empowerment, and free drone training programs for war widows.
A new chapter in India’s defence innovation unfolded as Garuda Aerospace inaugurated its Defence Drone Facility in Thalambur, Chennai. The event, graced by Shri Sanjay Seth, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Defence, reflects a bold stride towards Atmanirbhar Bharat and the nation’s growing self-reliance in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology.
The facility unveiled five next-generation UAV systems:
- Avalanche Victim Drone – designed for high-altitude rescue missions
- Swarm Drone – for coordinated strikes and surveillance
- Jawan Drone – dedicated to frontline soldier support
- Canister Dropping Drone – rapid payload deployment in combat zones
- Droni 2.0 – a multipurpose UAV serving both defence and civilian use
Beyond technology, the day resonated with initiatives aimed at impact and empowerment. Shri Sanjay Seth launched the Garuda Raksha Udaan 2025 Impact Book and announced the Defence Drone Lab in collaboration with the 13 JAK Rifles (Ladakh and Gwalior) to drive mission-specific innovation. A Free Remote Pilot Certification (RPC) Program for defence personnel was also rolled out, with the first batch receiving their certifications on-site.
A heartfelt initiative saw the introduction of free drone training programs for the widows of fallen soldiers, reflecting Garuda Aerospace’s commitment to community and resilience. The company also launched Garuda Akash Raksha Vans (GAR Vans)—mobile units designed to deploy, maintain, and repair drones across India’s defence commands.
“Our mission is to make India self-reliant in defence drone technology. Secure indigenous production, accelerated R&D, and rigorous testing are not just strategies—they are imperatives,” said Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder & CEO, Garuda Aerospace.
“By 2027, we aim to set global benchmarks in drone warfare innovation and reliability.”
Hon’ble Minister Shri Sanjay Seth added,
“This facility represents more than manufacturing—it is a hub of R&D, incubation, and innovation. It integrates academia, industry, and defence to build niche technologies and strengthen India’s modern defence needs.”
The inauguration also marked the laying of the foundation stone for a Defence Park at Cheyyur, Tamil Nadu, a 76-acre hub envisioned to lead India’s UAV innovation, manufacturing, and testing ecosystem.
With this milestone, Garuda Aerospace reaffirms its mission: to empower soldiers, uplift their families, and place India firmly on the global drone map.
