IG Drones signs MoU with UP govt to set up a defence drone manufacturing hub in the defence corridor, boosting India’s self-reliance in security tech.
LUCKNOW, Uttar Pradesh – In a significant boost to India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem IG Drones a leading defence drone systems company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Uttar Pradesh government to establish an advanced manufacturing and research facility within the state’s defence corridor. The agreement signed on October 9 aims to scale up the domestic production of cutting-edge drones for defence and security applications.
The new facility is strategically planned to position Uttar Pradesh as a central hub for aerospace and defence innovation while directly supporting the nation’s goal of self-reliance in critical military technology.
A Pledge for “Atmanirbhar Bharat” in Defence Tech
The core objective of the facility is to achieve large-scale production of indigenously designed drones. The company has announced an ambitious target to manufacture 100,000 units annually of its armoured first-person-view (FPV) ‘Striker Drones’. These drones have been entirely designed and tested within India.
Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, Founder and CEO of IG Drones, described the MoU as a national commitment. “This MoU is not just an agreement, it is a commitment to India’s self-reliance in defence technology,” said Sanghapriya. “Our new facility will serve as a hub of innovation, manufacturing, and employment, ensuring that next-generation indigenous drones are available for our armed forces and allies.”
Sanghapriya also pointed to the company’s proven track record, citing its role in ‘Operation Sindoor’, which was acknowledged in an official government release, as evidence of the technology’s operational readiness and effectiveness.
Meeting Soaring Global and Domestic Demand
The establishment of the facility is a direct response to the rapidly growing demand for advanced drone technology in modern warfare and security operations. Drones, particularly FPV types, have become crucial tactical assets.
Major General R C Padhi (Retd), Senior Vice President for R&D at IG Drones, emphasized the strategic importance of scaling production. “The demand for indigenous FPV drones is surging globally, and India must seize this moment,” he stated. He described the Striker Drone as a “tactical force multiplier” and highlighted that the new plant will be pivotal in meeting national security needs while also exploring export opportunities to friendly nations.
Alignment with National Vision and Economic Growth
This development is a tangible outcome of the government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative. The Uttar Pradesh government has pledged its support by facilitating necessary approvals and providing access to state and central government incentives for defence manufacturing.
With the global drone market projected to exceed USD 55 billion by 2030, largely driven by military applications, this facility places both IG Drones and the state of Uttar Pradesh at the forefront of a high-growth industry. The project is expected to generate significant skilled employment and foster a robust ecosystem of ancillary industries in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
1. What is IG Drones?
IG Drones is an Indian company that specializes in designing and manufacturing defence drone systems for security and military applications.
2. What has the company announced?
IG Drones has signed an MoU with the Uttar Pradesh government to set up a large-scale manufacturing and research facility in the state’s defence corridor.
3. What will be produced at the new facility?
The primary product will be the indigenously designed armoured first-person-view (FPV) ‘Striker Drone’. The company targets an annual production of 100,000 units.
4. What is the strategic significance of this facility?
It strengthens India’s self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in defence technology, reduces import dependence, and positions India as a potential exporter of advanced drone systems.
5. What is an FPV Drone and why is it important for defence?
A First-Person-View (FPV) drone is operated with a live video feed, giving the pilot a cockpit-like view. They are highly agile and are used for tactical missions like reconnaissance, targeted strikes, and surveillance, acting as a “force multiplier” for military units.
6. What is Operation Sindoor?
As referenced by the CEO, Operation Sindoor is a government-acknowledged operation where IG Drones’ technology was reportedly deployed, demonstrating its operational readiness and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
7. How will the UP government support this project?
The state government will support by facilitating regulatory approvals and providing access to incentives available under state and central government policies for defence manufacturing.