A Chennai-based defence sector startup specialising in anti-drone expertise just lately clinched a contract price over Rs 200 crore from the defence ministry. The firm is now wanting for its first export order this fiscal, because the central authorities has opened dialogue with different nations.
In an unique interview with News18, Dr R Shivaraman, the founding father of Big Bang Boom Solutions, make clear the corporate’s journey into growing anti-drone expertise. “We initiated our foray into anti-drone technology spurred by a conversation with Ajay Soni, formerly associated with Punj Lloyd and currently with Adani Defence and Aerospace, a few years ago. This discussion led us to think that as drones are becoming popular, there will be a need for counter-drone technology, especially something indigenous,” he mentioned.
Explaining the venture that impressed the defence ministry, Shivaraman mentioned: “Our soft skill system boasts of a fingerprint detector, enabling unparalleled detection ranges of 7-10 km, a significant advancement over existing market solutions. Powered by AI-based fingerprinting technology, our system excels in detection and jamming capabilities, with provisions for physical takedown as an optional upgrade.”
Reflecting on the transformative affect of the defence ministry contract, he pressured its function in nurturing a sturdy indigenous ecosystem. “The contract not only facilitates the delivery of our system but catalyses the development of a domestic vendor network for critical components such as antennas and power amplifiers,” he mentioned.
“These components were not available in India for a long time. Now, after we received an order, we have been able to place contracts to provide us with indigenous antennas with at least three vendors in India. For example, we are now working closely with a Delhi-based company to create power amplifiers in the country,” he added.
Highlighting their world engagements, Shivaraman mentioned the corporate sources the required materials from the US, Israel and Poland, who’re the closest companions notably for this venture. Apart from them, the startup additionally works with distributors from South Korea and Taiwan.
“Advanced discussions are underway with the Indian Navy, with expectations of securing the first contract within the next two months. Additionally, we will be looking at providing the same system across other defence establishments such as the army, BSF, CISF etc,” he mentioned about future collaborations.
The startup can also be hopeful about its first export order this monetary yr as Shivaraman highlighted the truth that the division of defence manufacturing has additionally opened up conversations with round 15 nations for the corporate, together with a delegation to go to Sri Lanka that came about final week. He additionally mentioned Big Bang Boom Solutions has acquired a letter of intent to purchase 400 programs from the Government of Oman.
There are severe discussions in regards to the procurement of the indigenous anti-drone answer, addressing manufacturing capability and differentiation from opponents. “Our current production capacity of 20 systems per month enables us to meet demand while maintaining flexibility for expansion. For us to move from a 200-unit production facility to a 400-unit production facility is not a big challenge. We differentiate ourselves through customised solutions tailored to end-user requirements and a modular design approach, ensuring seamless functionality.”
While discussing the worldwide anti-drone market, which is projected to attain over $5 billion to $6 billion by 2029, Shivaraman mentioned that is an space, akin to firearms and bulletproof armour, that requires developments primarily based on demand.
“One of the things we want to do is position ourselves not only in India but throughout the world, as an end-to-end anti-drone provider capable of delivering a core system and continuously updating as technology advances. Given that drones are maturing, we predict anti-drone activity to increase over the next 5-10 years. And we are in a situation where we can capitalise on the order that we received,” he mentioned.
He additional mentioned globally, the anti-drone system is turning into necessary as it’s an evolving risk. He defined that the increasing use of drones, spanning civilian functions to lively fight eventualities, raises vital considerations, notably as these units change into ubiquitous in city settings.
With drones more and more employed in actions similar to agriculture and supply companies, their accessibility escalates posing heightened safety dangers. From surveillance to illicit spying and payload supply, drones facilitate a spectrum of potential threats, necessitating strong safety measures.
Shivaraman underscored the crucial for not solely the armed forces but in addition state entities like railway stations and airports to fortify defences in opposition to this evolving panorama of threats.
“We are closely in touch with the ministry of home affairs (MHA) for an anti-drone policy,” he mentioned, whereas explaining that the technique is to determine how anti-drone programs will be positioned in vital locations.
“We did a demonstration for the Kenyan Defence Forces in Nairobi. When we installed our system, we found two drones were flying outside the defence secretary’s office. Even the secretary doesn’t know that there is a drone flying nearby. This was witnessed by the defence attaché from India,” he added.
“Our recommendation is the swift deployment of a fully passive detection system. We urge governments to prioritise the installation of detection systems over jammers, emphasising the importance of understanding the level of threat. By first analysing the threat landscape, authorities can better determine appropriate countermeasures. We advocate for policies that prioritise threat awareness, ensuring proactive measures are in place before implementing countermeasures,” he added.
