Garuda Aerospace partners with HFCL to boost AI in indigenous UAV technology

Drone startup Garuda Aerospace has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Himachal Futuristic Communications Limited (HFCL) at Aero India 2025. 

The partnership aims to advance artificial intelligence-driven unmanned aerial vehicle technology, giving a major push to the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative by strengthening India’s self-reliance in drone manufacturing.

A new era of drone applications

The collaboration will help both companies expand the use of drones in defence, agriculture, surveillance, industrial inspection, disaster response and logistics.

HFCL plans to develop and supply advanced payloads such as electro-optical/infrared sensors, LiDAR and AI-powered communication systems.

Garuda Aerospace will integrate these technologies into its drone platforms, ensuring seamless deployment for both commercial and defence operations.

Focus on AI capabilities and innovation

Under this alliance, Garuda Aerospace drones will be equipped with AI features for a wide range of activities. In disaster management, thermal imaging drones will aid in search, rescue and damage assessment.

Industrial inspections will be carried out through high-resolution cameras, and 5G-enabled networks will offer better connectivity for smart city surveillance. AI-powered cargo drones are expected to optimize logistics and urban mobility.

Real-time monitoring and analytics will also support government programs like Namo Drone Didi and Viksit Bharat, helping farmers through timely interventions.

The two companies will jointly research AI, machine learning and sensor fusion, aiming to develop next-generation drones with longer flight times, more autonomy and the ability to operate in swarms.

Leadership comments

Agnishwar Jayaprakash, founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, said the partnership gives the company a significant competitive edge by offering the most advanced drone solutions. 

"This collaboration gives Garuda a significant competitive advantage, enabling us to offer our customers the most advanced drone solutions available. The integration of high-performance payload technology for our drones will benefit various sectors, reducing our reliance on foreign suppliers and boosting our ‘Make in India’ initiative," Jayaprakash added.

Sampathkumaran S T, executive president (defence business) at HFCL, called the partnership a powerful synergy that will contribute to national security, economic development and humanitarian efforts.

"By combining our technological strengths, we are together building a future where drones are integral to national security, economic growth, and humanitarian efforts. We’re proud to be part of this ‘Make in India’ initiative and excited to see the impact of our joint efforts on a global scale," Sampathkumaran added.

The agreement is expected to speed up large-scale drone deployment, expand indigenous manufacturing and create paths to global markets.