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.

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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.

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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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India’s National Critical Mineral Mission Anchors Energy Security And Green Technology Drive

India’s ₹34,300 crore National Critical Mineral Mission has emerged as the cornerstone of its energy security strategy, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasising self-reliance in lithium, cobalt, and nickel during his Independence Day address.

The mission is designed to power advanced technologies, AI, and green energy while reducing absolute import dependence.

The National Critical Mineral Mission carries a seven-year financial outlay combining ₹16,300 crore from budgetary allocations and ₹18,000 crore from public enterprises. This funding is directed towards scaling domestic mining, deep-sea exploration, and recycling.

The Geological Survey of India has already intensified exploration, with over 230 projects underway in 2025–26. The National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust has sanctioned more than 120 projects since 2024, including support for private exploration agencies.

Four dedicated processing hubs are planned across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. These hubs will form the backbone of domestic value chains for battery elements, enabling India to move beyond raw extraction into refining and advanced processing.

A ₹500 crore allocation has been earmarked for mineral processing parks, while nine premier institutes have been recognised as Centres of Excellence to drive research and development in beneficiation, separation, and recycling technologies.

Global partnerships remain a critical pillar. India is pursuing overseas asset acquisitions, with public sector undertakings tasked to secure up to 50 foreign mines by 2030. Agreements with Argentina, Australia, Japan, and Myanmar have already been signed, focusing on lithium brine blocks, rare earths, and cobalt reserves.

The mission also envisages a Critical Mineral Corridor, linking domestic and international allies to ensure resilient supply chains.

Offshore exploration has been opened up in previously restricted coastal waters. This includes deep-sea mining initiatives for polymetallic nodules and hydrocarbon reserves, aligning with India’s broader energy diversification goals.

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act was amended in 2025 to allow exploration licences for deep-seated minerals, encouraging private-sector participation.

The mission also incorporates recycling as a major thrust. A ₹1,500 crore incentive scheme was launched in October 2025 to promote recovery of minerals from tailings, fly ash, and red mud. Pilot projects are underway to recover cobalt and nickel from industrial waste streams.

The government aims to recycle 400 kilotons of material by 2031, reducing reliance on imports and supporting circular economy principles.

India’s reserves of rare earth oxides, estimated at seven million tonnes, are significant but face regulatory challenges due to thorium and uranium content. State-owned entities dominate extraction, but the mission seeks to gradually expand private participation under strict safeguards.

The strategic importance of this mission lies in its alignment with national clean energy and defence goals. Critical minerals underpin electric mobility, renewable energy storage, aerospace, and AI-driven technologies. By building domestic capacity and securing overseas assets, India aims to achieve substantial strategic self-reliance, even if complete independence from imports remains unattainable.

Timelines remain a challenge, as mineral discoveries often take over a decade to translate into production. However, the mission’s integrated approach—combining exploration, processing, recycling, and global partnerships—offers India a realistic pathway to becoming a major hub in the critical minerals value chain.

Agencies

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Adani Green’s Khavda Park Emerges As The World’s Largest Renewable Energy Hub

The Khavda Renewable Energy Park in Gujarat is emerging as the world’s largest clean energy hub. Spread across 726 square kilometres, nearly five times the size of Paris, the project is transforming barren salt desert land near the border into a global powerhouse of renewable energy.

The park is designed to deliver 30 gigawatts of clean energy capacity, with 20 GW from solar and 10 GW from wind. This scale of generation is equivalent to powering the residential energy needs of entire nations such as Chile, the Netherlands, Belgium, Poland or Canada. Nearly 10 GW is already operational, with full completion targeted by 2030.

The project is spearheaded largely by Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), but it is also being developed through major public-private partnerships involving NTPC, NHPC and KPI Green. This collaborative model reflects India’s ambition to combine industrial capacity with national energy goals.

Infographic by Green Fuel Journal

Khavda’s hybrid energy model integrates vast solar panel arrays with large wind turbine installations in a single zone. This combination ensures a more balanced and reliable supply of clean power by harnessing both sun and wind resources. The facility also incorporates large-scale battery energy storage systems to capture surplus electricity and release it during peak demand, strengthening grid stability.

The renewable park directly supports India’s national target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity. It is expected to power roughly 18 million Indian homes, contributing significantly to the country’s energy independence and climate commitments.

Built on barren wasteland with no forests, farming or major habitation, the project avoids ecological displacement while creating new opportunities for sustainable development. With an estimated investment of 18 billion dollars, the park is also generating employment for more than 15,000 people, making it both an energy and socio-economic transformation program.

The Khavda site has already operationalised nearly 10 GW of renewable capacity, underscoring its role as a cornerstone of India’s clean energy expansion. By 2030, the park will stand as a benchmark for global-scale renewable integration, positioning India at the forefront of the energy transition.

AGEL has invested heavily in advanced renewable technologies, including bifacial solar modules with single-axis trackers and India’s largest 5.2 MW onshore wind turbines. It has also pioneered waterless robotic cleaning systems, reducing water usage to near zero while maximising efficiency. The project is supported by a centralised AI-driven control room, enabling real-time monitoring and optimisation at an unprecedented scale.

NTPC Green Energy Limited, through its subsidiary NTPC Renewable Energy Limited, is also playing a significant role in Khavda. It has commissioned multiple phases of solar capacity, including 270 MW at Khavda-II and 64.76 MW at Khavda Solar PV Project, contributing to India’s clean energy expansion.

By the end of FY 2026, NTPC’s renewable arm had crossed the 10 GW milestone, with Khavda being a central component of its portfolio. NTPC’s phased commissioning strategy ensures steady additions while managing grid integration challenges.

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are a defining feature of Khavda’s infrastructure. AGEL has commissioned the world’s largest single-location battery storage system outside China, with a capacity of 3.37 GWh.

This deployment was completed in just ten months, making it one of the fastest utility-scale battery projects globally. The system can store enough clean energy to power nearly one million homes for a day, supporting peak electricity demand in cities or even entire states.

Integrated with advanced energy management systems and lithium-ion technologies, the BESS ensures grid stability, reduces transmission congestion, and enables renewable energy to be delivered reliably round-the-clock. AGEL plans to scale this to 50 GWh over the next five years, cementing Khavda’s role as a global leader in renewable storage.

The combined efforts of Adani Green Energy, NTPC, and other partners at Khavda highlight India’s ambition to lead the global clean energy transition.

The integration of solar, wind, and battery storage at gigawatt scale is unprecedented, and the socio-economic impact is equally significant, with over 15,000 jobs created and billions invested. Khavda is not just a renewable park; it is a blueprint for future energy systems worldwide.

This initiative is more than an infrastructure project. It is a statement of India’s scale, ambition and determination to lead in clean energy. The future of energy is being built in India, and Khavda is at the heart of that transformation.

Agencies

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TCS And Rolls-Royce Validate 100% Hydrogen Propulsion For Aviation

TATA Consultancy Services (TCS) and Rolls-Royce have successfully demonstrated the operation of a modern aero gas turbine using 100% hydrogen across a full simulated flight cycle, marking a landmark achievement in sustainable aviation, announced TCS.

This breakthrough validates hydrogen’s viability as a zero‑emission aviation fuel and strengthens confidence in future propulsion technologies.

The announcement was made jointly in London and Mumbai on 14 August 2026. The program was first launched by Rolls-Royce and easyJet in 2022, with TCS joining in 2024 to provide engineering and technology expertise. The demonstration represents the culmination of a four‑year effort to prove hydrogen’s potential as a future aviation fuel.

The modified engine operated entirely on hydrogen and successfully completed a simulated flight cycle including take‑off, cruise, and landing. The tests validated critical hydrogen propulsion technologies across combustion, fuel systems, and engine controls. This is the first time a modern aero gas turbine has been demonstrated across a full flight cycle using hydrogen alone.

As Rolls-Royce’s engineering partner, TCS played a pivotal role in fast‑tracking development and validation. Its contributions included fuel system and engine controls integration, hydrogen combustion analysis, test preparation, validation, data analytics, risk management, and detailed design. This integrated approach combined advanced engineering with digital capabilities to accelerate delivery.

Adam Newman, Chief Engineer of the Hydrogen Demonstrator Program at Rolls-Royce, emphasised that the program provided valuable insights into how hydrogen behaves in a modern aero gas turbine. He noted that the learnings will support future propulsion innovations, including the UltraFan® engine, and reinforce confidence in gas turbine technology’s role in sustainable flight.

Anupam Singhal, President – Manufacturing at TCS, highlighted that the milestone reflects what becomes possible when advanced engineering is combined with digital capabilities and ecosystem collaboration. He stressed that the achievement demonstrates not only hydrogen’s viability but also the industry’s readiness to move from ambition to execution.

The partnership underscores TCS’ commitment to driving sustainable transformation across industries. Aviation currently contributes approximately 2–3% of global CO₂ emissions, and hydrogen propulsion technologies have the potential to eliminate in‑flight CO₂ emissions when deployed at scale. This demonstration is therefore a significant step towards enabling lower‑carbon aviation.

The program brought together expertise from across the aviation ecosystem. Rolls-Royce and TCS collaborated with easyJet, NASA, the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and other industry partners. This collective effort strengthens the knowledge base that will inform future propulsion technologies and support the aviation industry’s transition to low‑carbon air travel.

Rolls-Royce continues to position itself as a global leader in integrated power and propulsion solutions across civil aerospace, defence, and power systems. Its focus on sustainable technologies aligns with broader industry goals of reducing emissions and achieving climate targets.

TCS, rooted in the heritage of the TATA Group, has consistently upheld innovation and engineering excellence since its inception in 1968. With a workforce spread across 56 countries and 194 service delivery centres, the company generated consolidated revenues of over $30 billion in the fiscal year ending March 2026. Its aspiration to become the world’s largest AI‑led technology services company complements its role in advancing hydrogen propulsion.

The success of this hydrogen demonstration marks one of the clearest proofs to date of hydrogen’s potential to power future aircraft engines. It provides a foundation for further research, optimisation, and eventual deployment of hydrogen propulsion systems in commercial aviation.

TCS Press Release

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