Pune Start-Up Secures DRDO Contract to Enhance India’s Underwater Military Capabilities with Indigenous ULUAV Technology

Pune Start-Up Secures DRDO Contract to Enhance India's Underwater Military Capabilities with Indigenous ULUAV Technology (representational pic)
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative to enhance the country’s underwater military capabilities. Collaborating with a Pune-based defense startup, DRDO is set to develop the first-of-its-kind underwater-launched unmanned aerial vehicles (ULUAVs) that will be launched from submarines.
Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt Ltd has been awarded the technology development contract by DRDO’s Technology Development Fund (TDF) after a competitive selection process. Under the guidance of DRDO’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), Sagar Defence will pioneer the development of ULUAV technology, building upon their prior experience in maritime drone development for the Indian Navy.
The ULUAVs will possess the capability to be swiftly and autonomously deployed from moving submarines, providing high endurance and long-range surveillance capabilities. This advancement will enable submarines to conduct discreet surveillance missions, bolstering maritime security without compromising their stealth.
Mridul Babbar, director & vice-president of business development at Sagar Defence, emphasized the significance of this indigenous technology, highlighting its extended endurance of over one hour and a range exceeding 20 km, surpassing existing ULUAV capabilities globally.
Sagar Defence CEO, Captain Nikunj Parashar, expressed pride in DRDO’s confidence in their capabilities, emphasizing the strides made in defense innovation. By harnessing unmanned aerial vehicles in underwater environments, India’s defense industry aims to gain a decisive edge in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, bolstering situational awareness and operational effectiveness across the maritime domain.
This initiative underscores the Modi government’s commitment to fostering indigenous innovation and technological advancement, positioning India as a key player in maritime security and defense technology on the global stage.