Hyderabad Startup’s Jet UAV Takes Off From Moving Car in Bold Test
HYDERABAD: Hostel-born defence startup Apollyon Dynamics has successfully test-launched its jet-powered unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), ADX-1, from the roof of a moving car, as reported by TOI.
The startup is developing the indigenous UAV to reduce India’s dependence on imported target drones used for military training.
BITS Pilani Hyderabad campus students Jayant Khatri and Sourya Choudhury founded Apollyon Dynamics. The company identifies Khatri as its chief executive officer and Choudhury as its chief technology officer.
The founders said ADX-1 can serve as a target or decoy after they equip it with sensors and avionics. The platform could simulate threats such as the S-400 and Akash missile systems during military exercises, they said.
The founders also said they could configure the UAV for kamikaze-drone applications.
“We’re the only company in India and most probably among the few in the world working to launch a jet UAV from the top of a car,” said Khatri, co-founder of Apollyon Dynamics.
He said the company conducted the initial ADX-1 launches from a vehicle-mounted platform under controlled conditions and followed all necessary safety protocols.
“Each test is helping us move closer to operational readiness,” Khatri said.
Repeated failures helped refine UAV design
The two student entrepreneurs initially built ADX-1 prototypes using 3D-printed components. They later shifted to carbon-fibre construction.
The startup faced several failed launches and crashes during development. The founders said these tests helped them identify problems and refine the UAV’s design.
Apollyon Dynamics is now working on the UAV’s avionics and electronic systems. The company has not yet presented ADX-1 to the Army for evaluation.
Startup plans indigenous alternative to imported drones
“Right now, target drones are procured from the UK. With this launch, we have moved a step closer to building our own target drones,” Khatri said.
He said the UAV can carry sensors and a specialised radar-reflecting lens to increase its radar signature. This would allow military systems to detect it as a realistic threat during training exercises.
The company said it is also working with the Indian Army on other products, including kamikaze drones. It plans to offer ADX-1 for evaluation after completing work on its avionics.
The founders said the car-based launch system could help overcome logistical challenges in mountainous regions. Transporting a conventional catapult system can be difficult in such terrain, they said.
Apollyon Dynamics plans to raise around ₹40 crore to expand its research and development capabilities.
