Hyderabad emerges as hub of next generation drone technologies
HYDERABAD: Rapid advances in drone technology are reshaping military, security and civilian operations, with Hyderabad emerging as a major manufacturing and innovation base. Surveillance, bomber and suicide drones, along with logistics platforms for defence use, are already operational, while drones capable of transporting humans in emergencies are under development.
These technologies are on display at the Wings India air show, where several Hyderabad based startups and research hubs are showcasing prototypes and operational models.
Runway surveillance with AI-enabled drones
Airports require constant monitoring of runways to ensure safety during take-offs and landings. Bird strikes and debris pose risks, and manual detection is often difficult.
Representatives of Helni Robotics said their AI enabled camera drone can scan runways, detect obstructions and pinpoint trouble spots in real time.
‘Palyank’ drone for human evacuation
The Technology Innovation Hub on Autonomous Navigation and Data Acquisition Systems (TiHAN) Foundation, operating from IIT Hyderabad at Sangareddy, has developed a prototype drone named Palyank to transport people during emergencies.
The drone can carry a person weighing up to 100 kg and can be operated manually or autonomously through TiHAN Fly. Developers said it could be deployed effectively during disasters.
RV Maya: jet-powered tactical UAV
Representatives of Far East Automation Private Limited said their multi-role tactical unmanned aerial vehicle, RV Maya, is designed to evade enemy air defence systems and carry out precision strikes.
The jet-powered bomber UAV can also launch small missiles, they added.
Farm drone sprays one acre in eight minutes
Axi Aerospace Group has launched an agricultural drone named Varun, capable of spraying one acre of farmland in eight minutes.
The drone has a payload capacity of 15 kg and an operational endurance of about 30 minutes.
RV Drishti for border surveillance
RV Drishti is designed for continuous surveillance along borders. The drone also provides services such as jamming and has an operational range of 10 km.
T-Kala combat drone
TiHAN representatives said T-Kala is designed for combat roles. The drone has a flight time of about 30 minutes, can carry a 15-kg payload and has a range of 12 km.
Chakravyuh for heavy logistics
The Chakravyuh drone has been developed to transport supplies to high-altitude and inaccessible locations. TiHAN officials said it can carry loads of 100–150 kg and operate without a pilot, delivering cargo even in remote areas and adverse weather conditions.
