India’s deep-tech drone firm Zuppa has raised ₹5 crore in strategic funding from Rahul Devan, founder of Sangam Talks, to support its development of cyber-secure, indigenous drone systems. The investment follows a podcast discussion between Devan and Zuppa Founder & Technical Director Venkatesh Sai, highlighting the urgent need for domestic defence technologies.
Zuppa is the only Indian company—and one of just seven globally—with proprietary autopilot technology built on its patented Disseminated Parallel Control Computing in Real Time (DPCC) architecture. The cyber-physical stack powers the company’s Ajeet Series drones, designed as a secure alternative to foreign-origin platforms like China’s DJI.
The funding comes as India continues to grapple with cross-border drone incursions. Despite a ceasefire agreement with Pakistan, Indian authorities report regular aerial intrusions using DJI drones to drop weapons and narcotics. These incidents, particularly along the western front, have intensified calls for secure indigenous drone systems.
Zuppa’s Ajeet Mini, a kamikaze-style micro drone, has been validated by the Indian Army in high-altitude zones above 11,000 feet. The drone serves as a direct replacement for DJI platforms, aligning with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
Devan said Zuppa’s technology represents the future of India’s defence capabilities. “I’m excited to support this mission,” he added.
Zuppa’s ₹5 crore investment from Four Pursuits and backing from Garuda Aerospace and MapMyIndia further strengthen its position in the growing defence-tech ecosystem. The company is currently in a ₹10 crore bridge round closing by May 31, 2025, to expand its channel network and production capacity.
Sai emphasized that investor alignment with Zuppa’s technological vision remains key, particularly after its drone deployment in “Operation Sindoor.”
