As global interest in secure drone alternatives grows, India is emerging as a serious contender in the uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) market, with local manufacturers unveiling cutting-edge UAVs at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru. The defense and aerospace exhibition saw major announcements from Indian drone giants Garuda Aerospace and ideaForge Technology Limited, both introducing advanced UAV platforms aimed at surveillance, logistics, and defense sectors.
ideaForge Unveils Four New UAV Platforms
ideaForge, one of India’s leading drone technology companies, revealed an impressive lineup of next-generation UAVs tailored for mission-critical environments. The four drones include:
- NETRA 5
- SWITCH V2
- Tactical UAV (Concept)
- Logistics UAV (Concept)
These additions are part of the company’s push to offer robust, AI-powered solutions that cater to both military and industrial needs.
NETRA 5: AI-Driven Intelligence in Hostile Environments
NETRA 5 is engineered for surveillance in high-threat areas. Compact yet powerful, it’s equipped with AI capabilities and frequency-hopping technology to resist electronic warfare. Its ability to operate without GNSS signals makes it ideal for missions in contested or denied environments, including border patrol, disaster response, and tactical reconnaissance.
SWITCH V2: Versatile Long-Range Hybrid UAV
Building on the success of its predecessor, SWITCH V2 offers 25% better performance over SWITCH V1. It combines VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) capabilities with fixed-wing endurance, making it highly effective for long-range, high-altitude ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) missions. Enhanced wind resistance and fail-safes ensure stable operation in tough conditions. The SWITCH platform recently received DGQA’s “Fit for Indian Military Use” certification.
Tactical and Logistics UAV Concepts
ideaForge also showcased two concept drones designed for frontline operations:
- Tactical UAV: Built for defense forces, internal security agencies, and first responders, this UAV offers up to six hours of flight time with an 80-kilometer range. It supports AI-enabled detection, anti-jamming communications, and drone swarming, making it a valuable asset in real-time intelligence gathering.
- Logistics UAV: A fixed-wing VTOL platform developed for rugged terrain, capable of operating at altitudes up to 6,500 meters and carrying up to 200 kg of payload over 50 km. Its applications include emergency supply drops, cargo transport, and medevac missions in remote or mountainous areas.
New Programs to Encourage Early Adoption
To accelerate market readiness, ideaForge launched two engagement initiatives:
- Early Access Program (EAP): Offers early testers access to NETRA 5 for trials and feedback prior to its commercial release.
- Co-Innovate Access Program (CAP): Enables partners to co-develop drone applications for use cases such as mapping, high-altitude delivery, and emergency services.
India’s Rising Status in the Global Drone Industry
India’s drone sector is gaining momentum as demand for non-Chinese alternatives rises. Aero India 2025 served as a platform to display India’s growing technological capabilities in uncrewed aviation. With increased investment and strong government backing for “Make in India” defense manufacturing, Indian drone companies are now competing on a global stage.
This year’s UAV launches mark a significant step toward establishing India as a leading exporter of secure and high-performance drones, aligning with global needs for diversified and resilient drone supply chains.
