The most valuable drone start-up in India, Garuda Aerospace, has made a strategic investment in Zuppa, an indigenous deep-tech start-up that specializes in sophisticated autopilot systems and cyber-secure drones. In line with the government’s goal of supporting innovative domestic defense technologies, this investment represents a major turning point in the development of the “Make in India” drone ecosystem.
One of only seven businesses in the world with proprietary deep-tech in secure autopilot systems—which are essential for unmanned aerial systems (UAS)—is Zuppa.
By fusing Garuda Aerospace’s capabilities in finance, operations, and customer acquisition with Zuppa’s knowledge of cyber-secure autopilot systems, the partnership seeks to advance innovation, broaden market reach, and establish India as a world leader in secure drone technology.
In addition to investing ₹1 crore in Zuppa, Garuda Aerospace has ordered drones from the company for an additional ₹1 crore.
This partnership is viewed as mutually beneficial since it enables Zuppa to concentrate on its core technological innovations while utilizing Garuda Aerospace’s capabilities to propel growth in a variety of applications and regions.
The investment is in line with Garuda Aerospace’s goal of enhancing defense capabilities through innovative, safe, and domestically produced solutions. It also supports the company’s focus on developing a strong, self-sufficient drone ecosystem that serves both domestic and international markets.
With the support of investors like MapmyIndia, Zuppa has so far raised between ₹10 and ₹12 crore. Over the course of the next 12 to 18 months, the company intends to raise $10 million to $15 million in its Series A round.
