India's Battery Storage Capacity Surges 84-Fold to 8.2 GWh In First Half of 2026

India's battery energy storage sector recorded exceptional growth during the first six months of 2026, with 8.2 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery storage capacity added between January and June, Industrial Info portal reported.

According to Mercom India Research, this represented an almost 84-fold increase compared with the 98.4 megawatt-hours (MWh) installed during the corresponding period of 2025.

The rapid expansion pushed the country's cumulative installed battery energy storage capacity to 9.3 GWh by the end of June 2026, underlining the accelerating adoption of energy storage technologies across the power sector.

Standalone battery energy storage systems (BESS) remained the dominant deployment model, accounting for 83% of cumulative installed capacity. Rajasthan emerged as the leading state, hosting 36% of total installations, while Gujarat followed with a 20% share. The concentration of projects in these states reflects their significant renewable energy footprints and growing demand for grid-balancing solutions.

The sharp rise in storage deployment highlights increasing investment in infrastructure designed to improve grid stability, manage peak electricity demand and support the integration of renewable energy sources. Battery storage systems allow excess electricity generated during periods of strong renewable output to be stored and supplied when generation falls or demand rises, helping to maintain a more reliable power network.

Project development activity also gathered pace during the first half of the year. Around 28 gigawatts (GW) of storage capacity was tendered, while approximately 9 GW was auctioned. These figures demonstrate strengthening momentum in the procurement pipeline, although tendered and auctioned projects should not be interpreted as operational capacity.

The strong pipeline of new projects suggests that energy storage is becoming an increasingly important component of India's clean energy transition.

As renewable power generation expands, utilities and grid operators are expected to rely more heavily on battery storage to improve system flexibility, enhance electricity supply reliability and support the delivery of a more resilient and lower-carbon power system.

Industry trends indicate that growing recognition of storage's value in peak-demand management and renewable integration is encouraging greater participation from utilities and distribution companies.

The sector's rapid growth trajectory positions battery storage as a critical enabler of India's long-term energy security and decarbonisation objectives.

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Gridflow Advances Autonomous Electric Pod Transit Prototype for Dedicated Guideways and Urban Mobility

Gridflow Technologies Pvt. Ltd., a Hubli, Karnataka-based Start-Up founded in 2021, is developing an autonomous electric pod transit system designed to offer an alternative to conventional road-based transport.

As Indian cities face increasing traffic congestion, longer commuting times and growing pressure to adopt sustainable mobility solutions, the company is working on a guideway-based network intended to combine the convenience of private vehicles with the efficiency of public transport.

The company has developed a prototype autonomous electric pod system in which compact passenger vehicles travel on dedicated guideways, allowing passengers to undertake smooth point-to-point journeys without being impacted by regular road traffic.

According to the latest prototype update, each pod is capable of carrying up to four passengers or payloads of up to 400 kg while operating at speeds of approximately 30 km/h.

Gridflow is preparing for further testing through a demonstration on a longer guideway that is expected to achieve speeds of up to 60 km/h. These trials represent a significant step in evaluating the performance and operational viability of the system before broader deployment.

Led by founder and Chief Executive Officer Umesh Rudrapatna, the company is pursuing the development of a connected, autonomous, shared and electric transportation infrastructure. Its technology platform integrates robotics, artificial intelligence, automation and the Internet of Things to create a new layer of urban mobility infrastructure capable of supporting efficient passenger movement.

Under the proposed model, compact electric pods would operate autonomously along dedicated routes, providing direct travel between designated destinations. Gridflow aims to offer a service that combines the convenience and privacy traditionally associated with taxis with the predictability, reliability and infrastructure efficiency of public transport systems.

The concept envisions users booking driverless electric pods in much the same way as existing ride-hailing services. Instead of following fixed bus routes with multiple stops or navigating congested roads in private vehicles, passengers would travel directly between selected locations using a dedicated transportation network.

Such a system could prove particularly valuable for connecting residential neighbourhoods with workplaces, commercial centres and public transport hubs. Dedicated guideways could also help bridge first-mile and last-mile connectivity gaps that frequently limit the effectiveness of metro and bus networks.

By linking vehicles, guideways and digital control systems into a unified ecosystem, Gridflow seeks to improve coordination across the transport network while increasing operational efficiency and reducing travel delays.

The development of the platform extends beyond pod design alone. The company is simultaneously working on guideway engineering, vehicle stability, autonomous navigation, communication systems, operational safety and the management of multiple vehicles operating across a shared network.

Gridflow's multidisciplinary team includes mechanical engineers Mallikarjun V, Omkar G and Vikas H; robotics engineers Vidya N and Yash H; electrical engineer Radhika M; and computer science engineer Vidhatri A, together with additional contributors supporting the project.

The company has also explored advanced structural engineering concepts for the pod system. An internship project focused on isotruss and isogrid structures was carried out by engineering students under the guidance of Gridflow's management and project mentors, reflecting the importance of lightweight structural design in enhancing vehicle efficiency and performance.

According to the company, development is currently focused on a minimum viable product, while discussions are under way regarding proof-of-concept installations with potential partners. This places the venture in the early stages of commercial development, where prototype testing and real-world demonstrations will be crucial milestones.

Gridflow's broader objective is to reduce reliance on private vehicles by making shared transport more convenient, accessible and responsive to passenger demand. The company believes that a dedicated electric transportation network could significantly reduce congestion, lower energy consumption and decrease transport-related emissions in urban environments.

Beyond passenger transport, the platform could eventually be adapted for industrial and logistics applications. Gridflow states that the system's modular design may enable the movement of goods within industrial facilities, with configurations tailored to different payload capacities and operational requirements.

The company has outlined potential energy savings of 30% compared with electric buses and estimates that the platform could reduce carbon emissions from public transportation by 45%. If successfully scaled, the technology could represent a new approach to urban mobility by combining automation, electrification and dedicated infrastructure into a single integrated transport solution.

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Noida International Airport Joins Forces With The ePlane Company To Prepare Delhi-NCR For Electric Air Taxis

Noida International Airport has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Chennai-based aerospace firm The ePlane Company to develop the infrastructure and operational ecosystem required for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations across Delhi-NCR.

As part of the agreement, The ePlane Company plans to introduce its e200X electric aircraft to the region for future use as air taxis and air ambulances. The collaboration is aimed at laying the groundwork necessary for advanced air mobility services rather than launching immediate commercial operations.

The partnership will focus on establishing vertiport infrastructure, charging facilities, operational procedures, Vertiport Management Systems, and other support mechanisms required for safe and efficient eVTOL operations.

A key element of the arrangement involves allocating space at Noida International Airport for the development of vertiports and associated charging infrastructure. These facilities are expected to serve as critical hubs for future electric aircraft movements.

The two organisations will also work towards integrating eVTOL operations into the existing aviation ecosystem. This includes coordination with regulatory and operational authorities such as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and Air Traffic Control (ATC).

The planned infrastructure is intended to provide the physical, technological and regulatory framework needed to support future electric air mobility services across the Delhi-NCR region.

However, the agreement does not indicate that commercial e200X air taxi or air ambulance services will begin immediately. The aircraft must first complete extensive testing, certification procedures and regulatory approvals before entering commercial service.

The e200X is being developed as a versatile electric aircraft platform capable of supporting passenger transport, emergency medical services and cargo operations. According to the company, the aircraft has a compact footprint of 8 metres by 11 metres, enabling operations from relatively small sites compared with conventional aviation facilities.

In its air ambulance configuration, the aircraft is designed to accommodate one pilot, one patient and one paramedic, together with a standard stretcher, medical equipment and life-support systems. The company has also been pursuing the creation of a dedicated electric air ambulance network and previously entered into an MoU with Apollo Hospitals to advance that objective.

Founded in 2019 and incubated at IIT-Madras, The ePlane Company states that it received India's first DGCA Design Organisation Approval granted to a private aerospace company. The e200X has already entered the DGCA type-certification process, marking an important step towards regulatory clearance.

The company is targeting commercialisation of the e200X in 2028, subject to successful testing, certification and approval milestones. Industry observers view the development as part of India's broader push towards sustainable aviation, urban air mobility and lower-emission transport solutions.

Meanwhile, Noida International Airport commenced commercial flight operations in June 2026, with IndiGo becoming the airport's first airline operator. The latest agreement reflects the airport's intention to position itself early for the adoption of next-generation electric aviation technologies.

By focusing on vertiport development, charging infrastructure, airspace integration and regulatory coordination, the partnership seeks to create the foundation necessary for future electric air taxi and air ambulance services in one of India's largest metropolitan regions.

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Raana Semiconductors To Roll Out 12-Inch CZ Machines For Solar Industry, Targets ₹300 Crore By FY28

Raana Semiconductors, a Chennai-based deep tech Start-Up specialising in equipment for converting pure silicon into ingots, is preparing to launch its first commercial-grade 12-inch Czochralski (CZ) single-crystal machine within the next 10 to 12 months, The Hindu Business Line reported.

This marks a significant milestone for India’s solar manufacturing industry, as the machine will be tailored specifically for solar module makers.

The CZ method is one of the most widely used processes for converting pure silicon into single-crystal ingots, which are then sliced into wafers for chips, solar cells, sensors, and other applications.

Globally, more than 90 per cent of semiconductor electronics rely on wafers produced through this method, underscoring its importance in advanced technology manufacturing.

Founder and CEO Rajasekar Elavarasan explained that Raana’s first range of 12-inch CZ machines will be directed towards solar module manufacturers. He stated that the company aims to manufacture and supply machines capable of supporting cell production of approximately 10 GW over the next three years. This ambition aligns with the increasing vertical integration within India’s solar module industry.

Several Indian solar module makers, including Grew Solar, Vikram Solar, and Swelect Energy, are actively building ingot and wafer manufacturing capacities. The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has also proposed that solar ingots and wafers be included under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) from 1 June 2028. This move will enforce local sourcing of these components, strengthening domestic supply chains for module manufacturers.

Elavarasan revealed that Raana is in advanced discussions to secure an order for around 2 GW of machine capacity from a major solar manufacturer in India. If finalised, this deal could push the company’s topline to nearly ₹300 crore by FY28, reflecting strong commercial potential for its indigenous technology.

To support this expansion, Raana is establishing a 40,000 sq ft facility in Hosur dedicated to manufacturing CZ machines. The company’s machines are currently about 70 per cent localised, with plans to incrementally increase localisation levels in the coming years. This strategy is expected to reduce reliance on imported components and enhance India’s technological sovereignty.

At present, Raana has deployed over 40 CZ machines capable of producing 2-, 4-, and 6-inch ingots. These machines are primarily used for research purposes and are installed in defence, atomic, and other national laboratories. Additionally, Raana has developed machines capable of producing ingots from materials such as lithium niobate and germanium, which are used in quantum applications and infrared cameras.

On the semiconductor side, Elavarasan clarified that the company is pursuing a different strategy. For chips, Raana intends to supply only wafers rather than machines, thereby retaining complete intellectual property rights over ingot and wafer manufacturing. However, for solar applications, the company will continue to sell machines. Raana plans to introduce a commercial 12-inch CZ machine for chips within the next three years.

Globally, countries such as Germany, Korea, the US, and China dominate the manufacturing of CZ machines. Elavarasan noted that more than 90 per cent of ingot machines used in solar manufacturing are produced in China, highlighting the strategic importance of India developing its own indigenous capabilities in this sector.

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Kalam Labs And H3 Dynamics Partner To Build 24-Hour Hydrogen UAV For Indian Air Force

Lucknow-based Kalam Labs has joined hands with France’s H3 Dynamics to develop a cutting-edge hydrogen-powered UAV for the Indian Air Force, promising 24-hour endurance and zero-emission flight.

This collaboration is set to significantly enhance India’s ISR capabilities while aligning with global sustainability goals.

The partnership between Kalam Labs and H3 Dynamics is a strategic step in advancing India’s aerial defence technology. Kalam Labs, a Lucknow-based aerospace Start-Up specialising in stratospheric systems, has already demonstrated expertise in high-altitude UAVs and stratospheric deployment programs.

H3 Dynamics, headquartered in France, is recognised globally for its pioneering hydrogen fuel cell propulsion systems, which are now being adapted for military-grade UAV applications.

The goal of this collaboration is to build a hydrogen-electric drone capable of flying continuously for 24 hours. Such endurance is a major leap compared to conventional battery-powered UAVs, which typically achieve only a fraction of this duration.

The hydrogen propulsion system ensures emissions-free operation, making the platform environmentally sustainable while also reducing logistical burdens associated with fossil fuels.

The Indian Air Force is the intended end user of this system. For the IAF, the UAV promises enhanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. A 24-hour endurance platform would allow persistent monitoring of sensitive border regions, maritime zones, and strategic installations without the need for frequent recovery or refuelling.

This is particularly relevant for India’s operational requirements along the Line of Actual Control and in the Indian Ocean Region, where continuous situational awareness is critical.

Kalam Labs brings to the table its experience in stratospheric aerial systems, including balloon-launched ISR UAVs and hydrogen lighter-than-air platforms. Its innovations have already been tested in extreme conditions such as the Indo-China border regions.

H3 Dynamics complements this expertise with its advanced hydrogen fuel cell propulsion modules, which are lighter, more efficient, and capable of delivering long-duration power output. Together, the two companies aim to indigenise production while leveraging French technology for propulsion.

The UAV under development is expected to feature a composite airframe optimised for endurance missions, modular payload bays for electro-optical and infrared sensors, and encrypted communication systems for secure data relay.

The hydrogen-electric propulsion system will not only extend flight duration but also reduce acoustic and thermal signatures, enhancing stealth characteristics.

This initiative aligns with India’s broader defence modernisation and self-reliance program. By integrating hydrogen propulsion into UAVs, India positions itself at the forefront of sustainable military aviation.

The project also reflects a growing trend of international collaboration in defence technology, where Indian Start-Ups are partnering with global leaders to accelerate innovation.

The collaboration is likely to pave the way for future hydrogen-powered aerial systems in India, potentially extending beyond defence into civilian applications such as disaster management, environmental monitoring, and long-range communications.

For the IAF, however, the immediate benefit will be a persistent ISR platform capable of operating across diverse terrains and weather conditions.

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DRDO Issues RfP For Indigenous Air Breathing Space-Based Electric Propulsion In VLEO

The Defence Research and Development Organisation has issued a Request for Proposal under its Technology Development Fund program for the development of an indigenous Air Breathing Space-Based Electric Propulsion system designed for Very Low Earth Orbit Operations (VLEO).

The initiative is aimed at strengthening India’s capabilities in advanced propulsion technologies while reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.

The propulsion system is required to operate in orbital altitudes ranging between 180 km and 230 km. This altitude band is considered highly challenging due to atmospheric drag, and the system must therefore demonstrate sustained thrust levels between 12 mN and 25 mN to maintain orbital stability. 

The specifications highlight the preference for a Hall-effect thruster configuration, which has proven efficiency in electric propulsion applications.

The propellant combination specified includes ambient atmospheric air supplemented with Xenon, a dual-source approach that allows for extended mission endurance while reducing reliance on imported propellant stocks.

The system must operate within a strict power budget of less than 1,500 W and maintain a total mass under 40 kg, ensuring compatibility with small satellite platforms and modular spacecraft designs.

The mission life requirement has been set at three years, a demanding benchmark for propulsion systems operating in such low orbital regimes. To meet this, the design must incorporate robust thermal management, erosion-resistant materials, and advanced power conditioning electronics.

The indigenous content requirement is set at a minimum of 75 percent, aligning with the national objective of self-reliance in defence and space technology.

The program is expected to stimulate innovation among Indian industry, academia, and start-ups, encouraging collaborative development of advanced subsystems such as lightweight power processing units, miniaturised thruster assemblies, and indigenous propellant storage solutions.

The emphasis on indigenous content will also drive the creation of local supply chains for critical components, including cathodes, anodes, and high-performance ceramics.

Globally, air-breathing electric propulsion is being explored as a frontier technology for sustainable Very Low Earth Orbit missions. European and Japanese agencies have conducted experimental demonstrations, while private companies are investigating hybrid propulsion systems for extended orbital lifetimes.

India’s entry into this domain through the DRDO program signals a strategic push to position itself among leading nations in next-generation propulsion research.

The successful development of this system would enable India to deploy long-duration surveillance, communication, and scientific missions in Very Low Earth Orbit, offering advantages such as reduced latency, higher-resolution imaging, and cost-effective satellite deployment.

It would also contribute to the broader roadmap of integrating advanced propulsion technologies into future reusable space platforms and ultra-low orbit constellations.

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India’s $1,94,000 Crore Battery Race: Can It Break Free From China’s Grip?

India’s battery market, projected to reach ₹1,94,000 crore by 2031, is expanding rapidly across electric vehicles, renewable energy, telecom and consumer electronics, but the country remains deeply dependent on China, which controls up to 98% of the global supply chain for critical components. 

Despite ambitious government programs and subsidies, India’s self-reliance in battery manufacturing is realistically a decade or more away.

India’s battery market is currently valued at nearly ₹1,16,000 crore and is expected to grow to ₹1,94,000 crore by 2031. This surge is driven by rising demand in electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, telecom infrastructure and consumer electronics.

The government has launched multiple initiatives, including the National Program on Advanced Chemistry Cell Battery Storage, to attract investment and boost domestic manufacturing capacity.

India offers a significant cost advantage compared to Japan and South Korea, with estimates suggesting a 154% advantage over Japan and 9% over South Korea. However, this advantage is undermined by structural weaknesses.

Locally manufactured cells are expected to cost 25–40% more than imports in the near term due to limited scale, higher financing costs and an underdeveloped supplier ecosystem. As of 2026, India has only 2 GWh of commissioned cell manufacturing capacity against a demand pipeline of 260 GWh. In contrast, China has a cumulative capacity of 2,695 GWh.

China’s dominance is overwhelming. It controls between 85% and 98% of global capacity across every major supply chain component, including cathodes, anodes, separators and electrolytes. This leaves India structurally dependent on imports even as policy ambition accelerates.

Despite more than 226 GWh of announced capacity through 2035, execution delays, financial viability challenges and reliance on Chinese and Korean licensors mean India is still 10 to 15 years away from a globally competitive, self-sufficient cell industry.

Government incentives are attempting to bridge this gap. Schemes such as PM E-DRIVE and FAME-II have extended subsidies to electric vehicles, while state-level policies in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu provide capital subsidies and tax waivers.

These measures have encouraged Gigafactory commitments, with domestic capacity announcements reaching 68 GWh in 2025. Yet, the execution remains slow, and the localisation of critical upstream components is still limited.

The near-term opportunity lies in downstream components such as battery packs, containers and electronic manufacturing services, where localisation is technically feasible and commercially attractive.

Companies like TATA Agratas and Ola Electric are investing in lithium iron phosphate and nickel manganese cobalt chemistries, but these efforts remain reliant on imported raw materials and licensed technologies.

India’s challenge is not just technological but also strategic. To achieve true self-reliance, the country must secure raw material supply chains, scale domestic production, and invest heavily in R&D. Without this, India risks being locked into dependence on China even as it races to meet its clean energy and electric mobility targets.

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Autonomous Ocean Flight Breakthrough By Bangalore Start-Up Alteon

Bangalore-based deep-tech aviation Start-Up Alteon has achieved a breakthrough by flying its autonomous aircraft less than 1 metre above the ocean, validating dynamic soaring manoeuvres that could allow aircraft to harvest wind energy and remain airborne for months.

The company has also secured ₹24 crore in pre-seed funding to accelerate development of ultra-long-endurance aircraft for maritime surveillance and defence applications.

Alteon’s recent offshore test demonstrated its aircraft autonomously performing multiple consecutive loops at extremely low altitude over the Bay of Bengal.

This milestone confirmed the feasibility of dynamic soaring, a technique inspired by albatrosses that involves extracting energy from wind gradients by repeatedly diving into slower air layers near the ocean surface and climbing into faster-moving layers above.

By mastering this manoeuvre, Alteon aims to build aircraft capable of remaining airborne for more than a year without conventional propulsion or refuelling.

The Start-Up was founded in 2025 by Samay Sanghvi, a self-taught engineer who began experimenting with radio-controlled prototypes in 2023. Despite lacking a formal engineering degree, Sanghvi has built a team of around 20 specialists, backed by investors such as Lachy Groom, Together Fund, Emergent Ventures, and 1517.

The company’s vision is to create fleets of autonomous aircraft that can provide persistent ocean surveillance, track illegal fishing and trafficking, monitor infrastructure, and support defence operations at a fraction of the cost of ships, satellites, or conventional aircraft.

The ₹24 crore funding round will be used to advance research and development, refine autonomous systems, and prepare for deployment of aircraft fleets over oceans.

Alteon’s next milestone is achieving “energy-neutral dynamic soaring,” where the aircraft sustains flight entirely on harvested wind energy with propulsion switched off. This would mark a decisive step toward perpetual flight.

Dynamic soaring is not a single breakthrough but a convergence of multiple engineering challenges. Sanghvi has emphasised that ultra-high endurance requires ultra-high efficiency, precision, and reliability across autonomy, aerodynamics, and structural design. Each build and flight test contributes incremental learning toward the goal of year-long airborne operation.

The aircraft under development features a wingspan of approximately three metres and is designed to fly close to the ocean surface at speeds exceeding 100 kilometres per hour. Future iterations may use propellers as turbines to convert harvested wind energy into electricity, recharging onboard batteries and extending endurance further.

For comparison, the longest continuous flight ever recorded by an aircraft is 67 days, achieved by Airbus subsidiary AALTO’s Zephyr in 2025. Alteon aims to exceed this by more than five times.

India’s UAV market, valued at around ₹3,900 crore in 2025, is projected to reach nearly ₹11,500 crore by 2030, driven by defence, surveillance, logistics, and infrastructure monitoring. Alteon’s innovation positions it at the forefront of this rapidly expanding sector, offering a disruptive solution to persistent aerial surveillance and ocean monitoring.

The company’s ambitions extend beyond endurance. By deploying fleets of autonomous aircraft, Alteon envisions continuous monitoring of maritime zones, weather systems, and critical infrastructure. Such capabilities could transform defence readiness, scientific research, and disaster response, while reducing reliance on costly conventional assets.

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TATA Elxsi And Sarla Aviation Join Forces To Develop Shunya, India’s First Indigenous eVTOL Aircraft

TATA Elxsi and Sarla Aviation have announced a landmark collaboration to accelerate the development of Shunya, India’s first indigenous electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.

The agreement was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding signed at Sarla Aviation’s newly inaugurated headquarters in Bangalore.

The event was attended by Manoj Raghavan, CEO and Managing Director of TATA Elxsi, Adrian Schmidt, Co-Founder and CEO of Sarla Aviation, and Rakesh Gaonkar, Co-Founder and CTO of Sarla Aviation, alongside aerospace and engineering teams from both organisations.

The partnership combines Sarla Aviation’s vision for advanced urban air mobility with TATA Elxsi’s expertise in aerospace engineering, software, and flight-critical digital systems. TATA Elxsi will provide engineering support across avionics, including flight control systems, software integration, testing, verification, validation, and certification.

Sarla Aviation will lead the design, development, and type certification of the Shunya platform. The collaboration also extends to sensor fusion-based navigation software, industrial and structural design, and airworthiness test support.

Shunya is designed as a six-seater plus one pilot aircraft with a range exceeding 300 kilometres. It integrates vertical take-off and landing capability with fixed-wing cruise efficiency, enabling runway-independent operations and improved propulsion efficiency.

The aircraft’s first flight is targeted within the next 18 to 24 months, with certification activities expected to follow. This timeline reflects the growing role of Indian aerospace companies in shaping next-generation aircraft and advanced air mobility platforms.

Adrian Schmidt emphasised that building a new class of aircraft is not only an engineering challenge but also a collaborative effort requiring organisations willing to solve unprecedented problems. He noted that TATA Elxsi’s experience in complex aerospace systems provides critical capabilities as Shunya moves from concept to reality. He added that the collaboration demonstrates how advanced air mobility can transition from ambition to everyday infrastructure sooner than expected.

Manoj Raghavan highlighted that every major shift in transportation has been driven by engineering innovation and ecosystem readiness. He stated that advanced air mobility is no different, and Sarla Aviation’s vision for Shunya reflects the ambition driving this transformation.

He explained that initiatives like this create opportunities to apply expertise built across aerospace, mobility, and digital technologies to new aviation platforms.

Jayaraj Rajapandian, Head of Aerospace at TATA Elxsi, remarked that Shunya exemplifies the rapid evolution of aerospace innovation in India’s technology landscape. He pointed out that as aircraft become increasingly fly-by-wire, electrified, and connected, new opportunities are emerging to rethink how people, goods, and critical services move.

He expressed excitement about working alongside Sarla Aviation to advance this vision and contribute to the next phase of Shunya’s journey.

Beyond Shunya, the partnership is expected to strengthen capabilities relevant to logistics, air ambulance services, and defence-related applications.

For TATA Elxsi, advanced air mobility represents a natural extension of the Connected, Autonomous, and Electrification transformation reshaping transportation. By combining aerospace and mobility expertise, TATA Elxsi is helping build the foundations for advanced air mobility platforms in India.

This collaboration marks a significant step in India’s aerospace sector, positioning Shunya as a pioneering indigenous eVTOL aircraft that could redefine urban and regional transport.

The project underscores India’s ambition to establish itself as a leader in advanced air mobility, with implications for both civilian and defence applications.

Elxsi Press Release

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Eureka: India’s Amphibious Cargo Aircraft Cuts Delivery Time From Weeks To Hours

Aspera Industries has unveiled ‘Eureka’, India’s first autonomous amphibious aircraft capable of carrying 1,000 kg of cargo over 2,000 km, taking off and landing directly on water.

The innovation promises to cut delivery times from weeks to hours while targeting costs lower than conventional air freight.

The launch of Eureka marks a bold step in India’s aerospace sector. The Bangalore-based Aspera Industries, a young but ambitious Start-Up founded in 2025, has positioned itself at the intersection of logistics and aviation. Its aircraft is designed to operate without a pilot, using advanced autonomy to streamline cargo movement across vast distances.

The ability to take off and land on water eliminates dependence on airports, opening up operations to coastal regions, rivers, and industrial hubs built around waterways.

The aircraft’s specifications are impressive. With a payload capacity of 1,000 kg, a range exceeding 2,000 km, and an operating altitude of 6,500 feet, Eureka is engineered for long-haul logistics. Its carbon fibre body ensures strength while keeping weight low, enhancing efficiency and durability. 

Unlike traditional seaplanes that relied on stepped hulls, which created aerodynamic drag, Eureka employs retractable hydrofoils. These hydrofoils assist during water operations but retract during flight, reducing drag and improving performance.

The strategic vision behind Eureka is clear. Around 80% of global trade still moves by sea, often taking weeks to reach destinations. Factories and supply chains maintain three to six weeks of buffer stock to absorb delays. Air freight, while faster, is prohibitively expensive—flying a ton of cargo costs nearly 20 times more than shipping by sea.

Aspera aims to break this paradigm by targeting delivery costs of less than $1 per ton-kilometre initially, with ambitions to reduce it further to below 50 cents at fleet scale. This would make flying cargo not just viable but preferable for urgent, perishable, or high-value goods.

Founder and CEO Khushi Mittal emphasised that water is the world’s most abundant runway, with 150 of 193 countries having coastlines and 71% of Earth covered by water. By leveraging this natural infrastructure, Eureka bypasses the need for costly airport development.

This approach aligns with India’s broader push for indigenous aerospace innovation under its Atmanirbhar Bharat program, reducing reliance on imported technologies and positioning India as a leader in aerial logistics.

The potential applications are vast. Eureka could revolutionise supply chains by delivering goods directly to ports, factories, and cities without waiting for ships. It could serve humanitarian missions, transporting food, medicines, and emergency supplies to disaster-hit regions where roads and airports are inaccessible.

For industries dealing with high-value exports, such as pharmaceuticals or electronics, the aircraft offers a faster, more reliable alternative to sea freight.

Aspera Industries has already secured $750,000 in seed funding from Inuka Capital, signalling investor confidence in its vision. The company’s long-term goal is to manufacture large fleets of efficient aircraft in India, scaling operations to reduce costs further and compete globally with established players. 

Eureka is the first step in this journey, embodying a blend of engineering innovation and strategic foresight.

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AlphaX Aerospace Unveils Sea Rover, India’s First Amphibious Hybrid Aircraft

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.

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India And UK To Co-Develop Electric Propulsion For Four Indian Navy Landing Platform Docks

India and the UK are poised to sign a landmark Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) to co-develop Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) systems for four Landing Platform Docks (LPDs) of the Indian Navy, marking a decisive step in naval modernisation and bilateral defence cooperation, reported The Print.

The pact will leverage British expertise while building indigenous capability through Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) and GE Vernova.

The agreement is expected to be signed imminently and will represent a major milestone in India’s efforts to indigenise advanced propulsion technologies for large naval platforms. The four LPDs, to be constructed at an Indian shipyard, will feature a full-electric propulsion architecture, a first for the Indian Navy.

British officials confirmed that GE Vernova will partner with BHEL to establish India’s first maritime land-based testing facility for IFEP technology.

This facility will allow the integrated propulsion architecture to be developed and validated on land before being incorporated into naval platforms, ensuring reliability and scalability.

The IFEP system is more than a propulsion upgrade. It enables electricity generated by the ship’s power-generation system to be distributed across propulsion and other major electrical loads. This integrated architecture provides naval designers with greater flexibility in managing power, allowing future warships to accommodate increasingly power-hungry sensors, electronic warfare suites, and advanced combat systems.

The proposed IGA builds upon the Statement of Intent signed in Portsmouth on 28 November 2024 during the third meeting of the Joint Working Group on Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership.

That framework established cooperation in co-design, co-creation, and co-production of electric propulsion systems for future Indian naval ships.

British officials have indicated that the UK will draw upon its experience in developing sophisticated electric propulsion architectures, ranging from the Type-23 frigates to the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. This knowledge transfer will be critical in shaping India’s indigenous capability.

The arrangement reflects a broader shift in the India-UK defence relationship from conventional equipment sales to technology cooperation, industrial partnerships, and co-development.

For the UK, India represents a major potential market as the Indian Navy expands towards its target of a 200-ship fleet by 2047. This creates significant opportunities for GE Vernova and Rolls Royce in propulsion technologies.

The collaboration also aligns with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, ensuring that while India benefits from British expertise, the larger objective remains the development of capability within its own shipbuilding and engineering ecosystem. The IFEP initiative is expected to catalyse domestic innovation, strengthen supply chains, and reduce reliance on imported propulsion systems.

Additional discussions between the two nations have also touched upon retrofitting legacy Indian naval ships with electric propulsion systems, alongside modernisation of future warships. This demonstrates the long-term scope of cooperation beyond the four LPDs.

The agreement is part of a wider defence partnership that includes joint work on fighter engines for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and procurement of British Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs) for the Indian Army.

The emphasis is increasingly on co-development, joint manufacturing, and integration of Start-Ups into defence supply chains, reflecting a strategic evolution in bilateral ties.

By adopting IFEP, India will join a select group of navies operating advanced electric propulsion systems, enhancing operational efficiency, reducing acoustic signatures, and enabling integration of next-generation combat technologies.

The partnership with the UK ensures that India’s naval modernisation is both technologically advanced and strategically self-reliant.

ANI

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Pullinam Aerospace Secures ₹200-Cr Deal For 100 Indigenous CTOL Aircraft

Pullinam Aerospace Technologies, a Thanjavur-based start-up, has signed a binding Letter of Intent with Coimbatore-based Skyworks Aviation International to supply 100 light aircraft, TOI reported.

The deal is valued between ₹175 crore and ₹200 crore, marking a significant milestone for the emerging aerospace manufacturer.

The agreement covers Pullinam’s PAT-LSA01, an indigenous two-seater Conventional Take-Off and Landing aircraft. The model is currently under development in both electric and internal-combustion engine variants, reflecting the company’s dual focus on sustainability and conventional aviation requirements.

The LOI was signed on Thursday at the National Aerospace and Aviation Start-up Conclave. The event was organised by the Institute of Aeronautics, Astronautics and Aviation and StartupTN at the Nehru Institute of Technology campus in Coimbatore.

The signing followed eight months of technical discussions and negotiations. Skyworks began talks in January after the aircraft was showcased at the Tamil Nadu Global Start-up Summit in October 2025.

Professor CS Karunakaran, founder and CEO of Pullinam Aerospace, stated that the binding LOI validates the company’s design and market readiness well ahead of its flight-test phase, which is scheduled over the next two years. This early validation is expected to accelerate confidence in the indigenous platform.

Pullinam has also secured a Letter of Intent from the Indian Army Aviation wing’s Combat Army Aviation Training School in Nashik. This indicates potential applications of the aircraft in pilot training, surveillance, and leisure flying, broadening its scope beyond commercial use.

The company plans to establish its aircraft manufacturing facility at Sengipatti village in Thanjavur district. It also intends to expand operations across Tamil Nadu, strengthening the state’s aerospace footprint. Karunakaran confirmed that the aircraft would be priced at ₹1.5 crore for the commercial sector and ₹1 crore for the defence sector, ensuring affordability across different segments.

He further highlighted that Tamil Nadu has 13 unused airstrips which could support the deployment of indigenous light aircraft for personal and commercial purposes. This infrastructure advantage could play a pivotal role in expanding regional aviation accessibility.

The deal strengthens Tamil Nadu’s push to develop an indigenous aerospace manufacturing ecosystem. It builds upon the state’s established base in automotive and precision engineering, positioning Tamil Nadu as a rising hub for aerospace innovation and production.

Agencies

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Newtrace Pioneers Advanced Electrodes To Revolutionise Global Green Hydrogen Production

Newtrace, a Bangalore-based deep-tech climate start-up founded in 2021, is pioneering advanced electrode and stack technologies to make green hydrogen production cheaper, more efficient, and independent of rare earth metals.

The company recently secured $6.3 million in Pre-Series A funding to scale its innovations, positioning itself as a critical player in India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Newtrace has established itself as one of the very few companies globally capable of building advanced membrane chemistry, a feat achieved by only three other firms worldwide. This breakthrough underpins its proprietary innovations that aim to transform the economics of green hydrogen production.

The company’s flagship product, VoltaGen, is a high-performance coated cathode designed for alkaline electrolyzers. It delivers high energy efficiency without relying on precious or rare earth metals. VoltaGen is engineered as a drop-in replacement for existing electrodes, enabling electrolyzer manufacturers and hydrogen producers to upgrade performance without redesigning their infrastructure. 

This innovation directly addresses the cost and durability challenges that have long hindered green hydrogen adoption.

Alongside VoltaGen, Newtrace has developed Alkaline Electrolyzer Systems, which are end-to-end proprietary stacks designed for high-current, renewable-powered water splitting. These systems are built to operate at industrial scale, ensuring reliable performance under demanding conditions. The company has also commercialised membraneless electrolyzer technology, further diversifying its innovation platform.

A central focus of Newtrace’s work is reducing the capital expenditure (CAPEX) of green hydrogen production. Its technologies are designed to lower overall costs by up to 60%, while bypassing restrictive international supply chains. This approach not only enhances affordability but also strengthens India’s strategic independence in clean energy technology.

Founded by Prasanta Sarkar and Rochan Sinha, Newtrace benefits from their deep expertise in electrochemistry, materials science, and industrial-scale technology development.

The company operates from a 30,000-square-foot technology centre in Bengaluru, staffed by more than 45 engineers and scientists. It continues to expand its intellectual property portfolio through multiple patent applications, reinforcing its leadership in the sector.

Newtrace’s innovations have gained recognition under India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, which targets the production of 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030. The company showcased its technology before Prime Minister Narendra Modi during National Startup Day 2026, highlighting its role in India’s clean energy transition.

The global green hydrogen market is projected to reach $38.1 billion by 2029 and expand to $1.4 trillion annually by 2050. Yet, less than 1 percent of hydrogen produced worldwide today is green, with costs ranging between $4 and $10 per kilogram—more than double the cost of conventional grey hydrogen.

Newtrace’s innovations directly tackle this cost barrier by addressing inefficiencies in the electrolyzer stack, particularly at the electrode level where most performance losses occur.

The newly raised capital will support pilot-scale manufacturing, customer validation, supply agreements, and expansion of engineering capabilities. Newtrace expects to begin initial commercial deliveries of VoltaGen electrodes within the next 12 months, marking a significant step towards industrial-scale deployment.

By focusing on materials innovation, scalable manufacturing, and supply chain independence, Newtrace is positioning itself as a cornerstone of India’s hydrogen economy and a global leader in advanced electrolyzer technology. Its work represents a decisive move from proving scientific concepts to delivering commercially viable solutions for the hydrogen industry.

Agencies

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AlphaX Aerospace Unveils A Concept SkyRover Tactical Electric VTOL For Defence And ISR Missions

AlphaX Aerospace has unveiled the SkyRover Tactical, an indigenous electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft designed specifically for defence and ISR missions.

The announcement marks a significant step in India’s growing focus on advanced aerial mobility solutions tailored for military and intelligence applications.

The SkyRover Tactical adopts a tiltrotor-inspired electric design, combining the vertical lift advantages of helicopters with the speed and range of fixed-wing aircraft. This hybrid approach is intended to deliver operational flexibility across diverse mission profiles, particularly in contested or infrastructure-limited environments.

The aircraft is projected to achieve a range of approximately 800 kilometres, a notable figure for an electric-powered platform. With a cruise speed between 300 and 350 kilometres per hour, the SkyRover Tactical is positioned to provide rapid deployment capabilities for surveillance and tactical operations.

Capacity has been optimised to accommodate between six and twelve passengers, enabling both personnel transport and specialised mission payloads. This versatility ensures the aircraft can support troop movement, command and control operations, or intelligence teams in forward areas.

The platform is being designed with a strong emphasis on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance roles. Its electric propulsion system is expected to reduce acoustic signatures, enhancing stealth during sensitive missions.

The tiltrotor-inspired configuration also allows for vertical take-off and landing in confined spaces, expanding deployment options in rugged terrain or urban environments.

At present, the SkyRover Tactical remains at the concept stage. AlphaX Aerospace is focusing on refining its design and exploring partnerships to accelerate development.

The company’s initiative reflects the broader trend of Indian start-ups entering the defence aerospace sector with indigenous, high-technology solutions.

The unveiling of this concept highlights India’s ambition to integrate electric propulsion into tactical aviation. It also underscores the growing role of private-sector innovation in complementing state-backed defence programs, particularly in areas such as ISR where rapid technological adaptation is critical.

Agencies

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