Hyderabad and Bengaluru Drone Startups Innovate with First-Person View Technology for Modern Warfare

In the evolving landscape of modern warfare, particularly highlighted by conflicts like the Ukraine-Russia war and the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, Indian drone startups from Hyderabad and Bengaluru are spearheading the development of first-person view (FPV) drones. These advanced drones are becoming essential defense tools, providing operators with real-time visuals and enhanced precision.

Bengaluru’s Zulu Defence and Marut Drones from Hyderabad are at the forefront of this technological innovation. Zulu Defence has successfully developed several defense-oriented drones, while Marut Drones focuses on FPVs that could potentially be weaponized for military and anti-terror operations.

V Prem Kumar, co-founder and CEO of Marut Drones, shared that they have successfully tested indoor FPVs capable of reaching targets for anti-terror missions, as well as FPVs on borders for the defense ministry. He emphasized the advantages of FPV drones: an immersive experience, precise flying capabilities, and enhanced accuracy due to low-latency transmission, which are critical in modern combat scenarios.

These FPV drones are equipped with onboard cameras that transmit live feeds directly to the operator’s device, such as goggles or smartphones, facilitating improved targeting and operational precision.

Marut Drones has also carved out a niche in agricultural technology, demonstrating the versatility of drone applications. Meanwhile, Zulu Defence has developed the DRAP, India’s first indigenous kamikaze tank killer drone, designed to autonomously detect, track, and engage targets with a 5kg warhead. Additionally, Zulu’s VOLUME35 is a weaponized unmanned aerial system (UAS) capable of carrying and launching Igla-S shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles.

Prem Kumar highlighted the immersive nature of FPV flying: “The drone pilot sees only what the drone sees.” He pointed out that various types of FPVs exist, including FPV freestyle, cinematic, and drone racing, all offering precise maneuverability and accuracy—key attributes for modern warfare. He noted that while FPV drones can include GPS systems, they can also be flown without GPS.

As drone technology continues to evolve, these startups are positioning themselves as crucial players in enhancing India’s defense capabilities.

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