MoU Sign Between Indian Army's 515 ABW and IndyASTRA to Fast-Track AI Drone Tech

The 515 Army Base Workshop (515 ABW) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IndyASTRA Technologies Private Limited to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled drone solutions for the Indian Army’s land systems.

The agreement aims to integrate advanced technologies into drone platforms, with a primary focus on AI-based Flight Control Systems (FCS) and a standardized Drone Operating Platform (SDOP). According to a statement from the Defence Public Relations Officer, this collaboration is expected to enhance the Army’s technological self-reliance in unmanned aerial systems.

Under the MoU, IndyASTRA Technologies will provide technical consultancy to 515 ABW, including detailed evaluations of drone subsystems, readiness for integration, and adherence to Army operational standards. This partnership ensures that every technology adoption aligns with safety, interoperability, and regulatory compliance requirements.

The 515 ABW will forward need-based requests to IndyASTRA for manufacturing trials, performance validation, and certification support. This structured approach is expected to reduce reliance on imported unmanned systems, while facilitating faster deployment of AI-enabled drones in operational scenarios.

The MoU also emphasizes a replicable development model, which can be extended to future drone programs and related subsystems. By fostering indigenous capabilities, the initiative is anticipated to significantly shorten the time-to-field for advanced drone solutions, ensuring the Indian Army remains equipped with modern, efficient, and reliable unmanned systems.

Experts note that collaborations like these reflect a growing focus on leveraging domestic technology providers to support defence modernization, reduce dependency on foreign imports, and strengthen strategic autonomy in critical military technologies.