Defence Ministry Signs 350th iDEX Contract with SpacePixxel Technologies for Miniature Satellite Development

In a landmark achievement for India’s defense and space sectors, the Ministry of Defence has signed its 350th iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) contract with SpacePixxel Technologies Pvt Ltd. This significant milestone marks a major leap forward in the design and development of a miniature observation and imaging satellite for the Indian Air Force (IAF). This initiative is set to revolutionize space electronics by miniaturizing payloads traditionally deployed on larger satellites.

The miniaturized satellite developed under this contract is a marvel of modern technology, capable of carrying a variety of sophisticated payloads. These include electro-optical, infrared, synthetic aperture radar, and hyperspectral imaging systems, all within a compact form factor of up to 150 kg. This innovative approach offers numerous advantages such as faster deployment, cost efficiency, ease of manufacturing, scalability, adaptability, and a reduced environmental footprint.

SpacePixxel Technologies, renowned for its high-resolution hyperspectral imaging satellites, is at the forefront of this groundbreaking project. The contract was formally exchanged between Anurag Bajpai, Additional Secretary (Defence Production) & CEO of the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), and Awais Ahmed Nadeem Alduri, Founder and CEO of SpacePixxel Technologies. This collaboration underscores SpacePixxel’s commitment to providing detailed earth observation data through advanced satellite technology.

The Ministry of Defence’s rapid progress in fostering defense innovation is evident from this milestone. Within just 18 months of signing the 150th iDEX contract in December 2022, the Ministry has reached this significant landmark. Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane praised the new wave of defense innovators for their dedication and technological advancements, emphasizing the government's unwavering support for these initiatives.

The iDEX initiative, launched by the DIO under the Department of Defence Production, is a flagship program aimed at fostering innovation and technology development in defense and aerospace. It actively engages industries, including MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, R&D institutes, and academia, promoting a collaborative approach to innovation and entrepreneurship in these critical sectors.

Since its inception, iDEX has been a driving force in advancing defense technology in India. The initiative has launched 11 editions of the Defence India Start-up Challenge and recently unveiled the Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme to further promote innovations in strategic defense technologies. The procurement of 35 items worth over ₹2,000 crore has already been cleared, showcasing the tangible impact of iDEX’s efforts.

In 2021, iDEX was honored with the Prime Minister Award for Public Policy in the Innovation Category, highlighting its significant contributions to the field. Currently, iDEX is engaged with over 400 start-ups and MSMEs, reflecting the growing ecosystem of defense innovators in India.

This 350th contract with SpacePixxel Technologies not only signifies a milestone for the Ministry of Defence but also represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of defense technology in India. By embracing miniaturized satellite technology, the Ministry is paving the way for faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly space missions, ensuring that India remains at the cutting edge of defense and aerospace innovation.