ideaForge Secures ~₹137 Crore Emergency Procurement Order from Indian Army for Hybrid Mini UAVs: An Overview
In June 2025, ideaForge won an emergency procurement order valued at approximately ₹137 crore from the Indian Army for its indigenous hybrid Mini UAVs. This deal represents a significant milestone, enhancing India’s strategic position in defence technology.
The Big Picture: Importance of the Order
The acquisition of ideaForge’s hybrid Mini UAVs by the Indian Army underscores growing trust in native technology amid concerns over foreign components, especially those from China. The urgent requirement for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities along India’s dynamic borders adds to the deal’s significance.
Key Highlights:
- Value: ~₹137 crore (~$16.5 million)
- Supplier: ideaForge Technology, based in Mumbai
- Product: Hybrid Mini UAVs with VTOL design
- Purpose: For CI/CT operations and ISR
- Delivery: Within 12 months
About ideaForge: A Leading Indian Drone Manufacturer
Founded by IIT Bombay alumni, ideaForge is a frontrunner in the Indian drone manufacturing sector. It serves military, homeland security, disaster management, and infrastructure markets. Its R&D and production facilities spread across Navi Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi, and the USA, contribute to the “Make in India” narrative.
Features of Hybrid Mini UAVs
Unique Engineering
These UAVs integrate the best of fixed-wing and VTOL technologies. The vertical take-off and landing capability eliminates the need for runways, ideal for challenging terrain. The hybrid design offers prolonged flight and endurance.
Military-Grade Performance
Having proven their worth during Operation Sindoor, these UAVs deliver real-time ISR support. The Directorate General of Quality Assurance certifies them as fit for military use, underscoring their reliability.
Security-Conscious Supply Chain
With increasing concerns about foreign “spy chips,” India mandates sourcing critical components from non-border-sharing nations, fostering a secure supply chain.
The Procurement Process
The order was placed through the emergency procurement route to address pressing ISR needs following military flare-ups. Reforms allow fast-tracking such acquisitions, utilizing up to 15% of the annual modernization budget.
Criteria for Choosing ideaForge
The UAVs excelled during Operation Sindoor, providing ISR in harsh conditions. Their indigenous design and secure supply chain play a crucial role amid global concerns about suspect components.
Strategic Impacts
This order lessens foreign dependency, boosts local industry, enhances digital security, and encourages self-reliance in defence technology. It also solidifies India’s position as a capable tech innovator on the global stage.
Looking Forward
ideaForge plans to deliver the order within a year, enhancing ISR capabilities. There’s potential for exporting battle-tested UAVs as they gain international credibility.
Expert Insights
This deal signals tighter security standards in drone manufacturing, opening avenues for high-performance, secure drones across critical sectors.
Alternative uses for VTOL platforms, such as cargo transport in challenging terrains, present exciting future possibilities.
Final Reflections
This procurement deal strengthens the synergy between technological innovation and national security, showcasing India’s readiness to lead in drone technology.
