AlphaX Aerospace, a Bangalore-based defence and aviation Start-Up, is developing India’s first amphibious hybrid aircraft called Sea Rover, a pioneering platform designed to operate seamlessly on land, air, and water.

This marks a significant leap in indigenous aerospace innovation, combining hybrid propulsion with amphibious versatility.

The Sea Rover is being positioned as a breakthrough in India’s aerospace sector. It is designed to function as a multi-role aircraft capable of taking off and landing on conventional runways, water bodies, and short strips, making it highly adaptable for both civilian and defence missions.

The hybrid propulsion system integrates electric and conventional engines, ensuring extended range, reduced emissions, and operational flexibility.

AlphaX Aerospace, founded in 2025, has already attracted attention for its SkyRover electric VTOL program. The Sea Rover builds upon this foundation, incorporating proprietary technologies such as AeroCore for modular airframe design, GlideCore for vibration-free cabin comfort, and FlightCore for intelligent flight control and safety. These systems are expected to be adapted for amphibious operations, ensuring stability during water landings and take-offs.

The aircraft is being developed with a projected range of approximately 700–800 kilometres and a cruise speed of 300–350 kilometres per hour. Its amphibious capability will allow operations in coastal regions, island territories, and disaster-hit areas where conventional aircraft cannot function. This makes it suitable for roles such as maritime patrol, search and rescue, humanitarian relief, and regional connectivity.

Capacity is expected to be in the 6–12 passenger range, similar to the SkyRover series, but optimised for amphibious missions. The Sea Rover is also being designed to carry specialised payloads, including surveillance equipment, medical supplies, and defence systems.

Its hybrid propulsion will reduce acoustic signatures, enhancing stealth in sensitive operations.

AlphaX Aerospace is incubated under the AIC Crescent Innovation Council with support from NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission. The company’s focus on indigenous manufacturing and hybrid-electric propulsion aligns with India’s broader push for self-reliance in aerospace and defence.

The Sea Rover project reflects the growing role of private-sector innovation in complementing state-backed defence programs.

Globally, amphibious aircraft are rare, with Japan’s ShinMaywa US-2 and Russia’s Beriev Be-200 being notable examples. However, these platforms rely on conventional propulsion.

The Sea Rover’s hybrid-electric approach could place India at the forefront of sustainable amphibious aviation, offering a unique combination of versatility and eco-conscious design.

The aircraft is currently at the concept stage, with AlphaX exploring partnerships for prototyping and certification. If successful, the Sea Rover could redefine regional air mobility and maritime operations, offering India a strategic edge in both civilian and defence applications.

Agencies