IG Drones, India’s leading defence drone and counter-drone systems company, has taken a significant step toward bolstering the nation’s defence capabilities by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Uttar Pradesh. The agreement paves the way for the establishment of an Advanced Drone Manufacturing and R&D Facility within the UP Defence Corridor, a move that underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence technology.
The new facility will focus on developing and mass-producing indigenous first-person view (FPV) and kamikaze drones, strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem and reducing reliance on foreign technologies. The Uttar Pradesh government has pledged full support, including streamlined approvals, permissions, and access to central and state-level incentives, to position the state as a strategic hub for aerospace and defence innovation.
This expansion comes on the heels of IG Drones’ successful deployment of its Kamikaze FPV drones during Operation Sindoor, where the company demonstrated its combat readiness and precision strike capabilities. Building on this success, IG Drones plans to scale production of its armoured FPV Striker drones to an annual output of 100,000 units, reinforcing India’s tactical and technological advantage.
“This facility will be a cornerstone in India’s journey toward self-reliance in defence technology,” said a spokesperson for IG Drones. “By focusing on indigenous development and mass production, we aim to position India as a global leader in drone technology.”
The move aligns with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, which seeks to ensure that future defence technologies are “Built in Bharat, Built for Bharat, and Ready for the World.” As the global drone market is projected to exceed USD 55 billion by 2030, IG Drones’ investment underscores the growing importance of drones in modern warfare and the critical role of domestic manufacturing in securing national security.
The collaboration between IG Drones and the Uttar Pradesh government is expected to create a ripple effect, attracting further investments in the defence sector and fostering innovation in aerospace technology. By leveraging local expertise and resources, the facility will not only enhance India’s defence capabilities but also contribute to the economic development of the region.
As India continues to strengthen its defence manufacturing ecosystem, the establishment of this facility marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s journey toward technological sovereignty. The partnership between IG Drones and the Uttar Pradesh government sets a precedent for future collaborations, reinforcing India’s position as a key player in the global defence industry.