In a significant boost to India’s defence capabilities, Mumbai-based drone manufacturer ideaForge Technology Ltd has secured a substantial supply order from the Indian Army. The Rs 100 crore contract covers two advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs): the next-generation tactical unmanned vehicle Zolt and the all-terrain vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drone SWITCH 2.
The order for Zolt, valued at approximately Rs 75 crore, follows an extensive and rigorous evaluation process, including field trials in electronic warfare (EW) environments and stringent country of origin checks. The SWITCH 2 order is valued at Rs 30 crore. Both UAVs were unveiled at the Aero India show in Bengaluru earlier this year.
Zolt is a multi-role platform designed for long-range intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and precision payload delivery. It is purpose-built for modern defence operations, combining performance, autonomy, and resilience. The drone is engineered to perform in high-threat, high-altitude, and signal-contested environments, featuring robust electronic counter-countermeasures capabilities, including GNSS-denied autonomy and resilience to communication jamming.
SWITCH 2, already battle-tested and inducted into the Army’s arsenal, is utilised for ISR operations. Its VTOL capability allows it to operate in diverse terrains, making it a versatile asset for the Indian Army.
“This order underscores our commitment to delivering best-in-class systems to our soldiers and creating long-term value for our shareholders while actively shaping the future of this technology and driving adoption,” said Ankit Mehta, Co-founder and CEO of ideaForge Technology Ltd.
The procurement is part of the capital emergency procurement process, reflecting the urgent need for advanced UAV technology to enhance the Indian Army’s operational readiness. The order highlights the growing importance of indigenous drone technology in modern warfare and underscores the Indian Army’s confidence in ideaForge’s capabilities.
The development of advanced UAVs like Zolt and SWITCH 2 is a testament to India’s growing self-reliance in defence technology. By investing in homegrown solutions, the Indian Army not only strengthens its operational capabilities but also supports the domestic defence industry, fostering innovation and technological advancement.
As the defence sector continues to evolve, the collaboration between ideaForge and the Indian Army sets a precedent for future partnerships. It demonstrates the potential of indigenous technology to meet the complex demands of modern warfare, ensuring that Indian forces are well-equipped to address emerging threats.
This significant order is expected to pave the way for further advancements in UAV technology, driving the adoption of cutting-edge solutions across the defence landscape. As ideaForge continues to innovate, its contributions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of India’s defence capabilities.