IG Defence bets on drones, AI warfare to build ₹10,000-crore pipeline

IG Defence, a strategic systems manufacturer headquartered in Noida, unveiled plans to establish a ₹10,000-crore defense business pipeline by FY30. The company will focus on autonomous strike platforms, AI-enabled warfare systems, and drone manufacturing, leveraging India’s rising military demand and a projected $2 billion drone acquisition. The company’s growth strategy centers on its KAL platform, a long-range autonomous deep-strike drone capable of operating beyond 1,000 km, making it the only domestic player in this category. IG Defence also highlighted opportunities in logistics drones for high-altitude defense applications and counter-unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Founded in Odisha, the company secured a ₹5,000-crore order for 5,000 drones last year and is exploring exports to the Middle East, Philippines, and Kyrgyzstan. Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, CEO of IG Defence, emphasized the company’s alignment with India’s defense needs and global demand, citing the KAL and JWALA programs as key offerings. JWALA, an indigenous missile development initiative led entirely by the private sector, marks a shift from traditional government-dominated defense projects like those of the DRDO. IG Defence is expanding capacity at its Odisha and Jhansi facilities to meet future demands. A ₹300 crore investment in a new drone manufacturing hub in Odisha’s Ganjam district will focus on advanced unmanned systems and export-oriented production. Meanwhile, the Jhansi facility, part of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor, will prioritize drone manufacturing and R&D for large-scale indigenous production. The company’s strategic focus includes homeland security, strategic government programs, and international markets, positioning itself to capitalize on India’s expected ₹20,000 crore drone procurement in the coming years. IG Defence’s expansion reflects its ambition to become a leader in autonomous and AI-driven defense solutions.