Veda Aeronautics, a leading Indian defense startup, has made major advances in air-launched swarm drone technology with its Sureshastra Mk1 system, a jet-powered, catapult-launched swarm drone designed for long-range precision strikes. This indigenous system reflects India’s push for self-reliant defense capabilities and is currently in delivery to the Indian Air Force (IAF) under a significant contract.
About the Sureshastra Mk1 Swarm Drone
The Sureshastra Mk1 is a 3.5-meter long, 3-meter wingspan fixed-wing drone weighing around 90 kg fully loaded. Powered by jet propulsion—a rare feature in Indian drones—it features a warhead payload and can strike targets at over 150 kilometers' range using satellite guidance. Its swarm capability allows multiple drones to coordinate attacks simultaneously, overwhelming enemy air defenses. This provides the IAF an ability to conduct precision strikes on fortified enemy bases and installations while minimizing risk to manned aircraft.
Development and Operational Context
Veda Aeronautics developed the Sureshastra Mk1 drawing inspiration from platforms such as Iran’s Shahed-136 and Russia’s Geran-2, adapting them to Indian operational needs. The contract for 200 units worth Rs 300 crore was awarded in August 2023 under the IAF’s Meher Baba swarm drone programme. Delivery began in 2025, marking the largest unmanned system order placed with an Indian startup.
The drone system was validated through extensive user trials including in the Thar desert. It addresses gaps in the IAF’s arsenal by providing low-cost expendable systems for precise, long-range attacks, crucial in the evolving drone warfare landscape highlighted by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Future developments may include ship- or vehicle-launched variants to extend its tactical use.
Veda Aeronautics and Indigenous Defense Innovation
Founded in 2020, Veda Aeronautics has grown rapidly as a key player in India’s defense tech startup ecosystem. Beyond swarm drones, it works on other innovative systems such as high-altitude pseudo-satellites (HAPS), anti-drone solutions, underwater decoys, and infantry weapon systems. The company emphasizes deep R&D, aiming to compete with global defense technologies while driving the “Make in India” vision.
Summary
Veda Aeronautics is at the forefront of India’s growing indigenous defense technology sector, pioneering air-launched swarm drone capabilities through its Sureshastra Mk1. This jet-powered, long-range drone combines advanced swarm tactics with precise satellite-guided strikes, enabling the IAF to neutralize fortified enemy targets effectively and safely. With a major Rs 300 crore contract secured, Veda is setting new benchmarks for homegrown military innovation, validated by rigorous field testing and inspired by global conflicts highlighting drone warfare's strategic importance. The company’s holistic approach to defense R&D promises continued advancements, reinforcing India’s self-reliance in critical aerial combat technologies.
This breakthrough not only marks a significant milestone for Veda Aeronautics but also boosts India's defense preparedness and technological sovereignty in drone warfare. It exemplifies the growing role of startups in transforming military capabilities and securing the nation through cutting-edge indigenous solutions.