The successful military maneuver Operation Sindoor by the Indian military in response to the Pahalgam terror attack has led to a defining moment in the history of India in becoming technologically self-dependent in military efforts. This operation was an indication of a more capable India in drone warfare, layered air defence and electronic warfare, and it ushered in a new dawn in self-developed defence technologies.
With the Indian drone market expected to reach $11 billion by 2030—capturing 12.2% of the global share—the impact of the Centre’s ban on imported drones and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for drones and components is now being fully realised. Tamil Nadu, in particular, is stepping up as a major defence drone manufacturing hub.
The state is home to a vibrant mix of companies such as Dhaksha, Garuda Aerospace, Zuppa, Big Bang Boom, and Data Patterns. “The way drones were predominantly considered as a tool for surveillance has now changed,” said Sai Pattabiram, founder and managing director of Zuppa, noting a 5X surge in order enquiries post-Operation Sindoor. Garuda Aerospace CEO Agnishwar Jayaprakash added, “We are developing eight different drone platforms and collaborating with global players such as Lockheed Martin and Thales.”
Wing Commander P Madhusoodhanan of TIDCO confirmed, “The drone industry is at an inflection point. With military procurement expanding, we expect greater scale and sustainability.”
While the growth is strong, concerns over the lack of indigenous supply chains and the need for armed forces’ support in co-development remain. Yet, Tamil Nadu is leveraging its defence corridor, tech infrastructure, and engineering talent to lead the next phase of India’s defence drone revolution.
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