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Funding · Mobility & Logistics

EndureAir gets ₹30 Cr grant for heavy drone development

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Date
Company
EndureAir Systems
What it does
Drone manufacturer for defence and logistics
Kind
Funding
Amount
₹25 Cr
Stage
grant
Founded
2018
Sector
Mobility & Logistics

What they do

EndureAir makes vertical takeoff drones for defence and logistics

What happened

The company received a ₹30 Cr government grant to develop the SABAL-200 kg drone

Why it matters

This is part of the first batch of startups selected under the new RDIF scheme

The details

  • EndureAir Systems has secured a ₹30 Cr grant from the Indian government.
  • The funding comes under the RDIF scheme launched by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research.
  • This amount equals approximately $3.1 Mn in US dollars.
  • EndureAir is among the first five startups selected for disbursements under this scheme.
  • The grant supports the development of the SABAL-200 kg heavy-payload drone.
  • The company aims to prepare the drone for commercial deployment soon.
  • EndureAir will use the funds for R&D and manufacturing expansion.
  • The move aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission for self-reliance.

The bigger picture

  • The RDIF scheme has a total pool of ₹1 Lakh Cr.
  • It was launched in July 2025 to boost domestic tech innovation.
  • Peer startup Dhruva Space also secured a large grant under this scheme.
  • The grant signals strong government support for the drone sector.
  • EndureAir focuses on import substitution for critical aerospace components.

About the business

  • EndureAir designs and manufactures VTOL UAS (vertical takeoff aircraft).
  • The flagship SABAL-200 kg carries a 200 kg payload.
  • It offers 2.5 hours of endurance and a 200 km range.
  • Use cases include defence, surveillance, and disaster management.
  • Smaller platforms like SABAL-20 and SABAL-40 are already deployed.
  • The company focuses on Indian operating conditions for its drones.
  • Manufacturing happens in-house to ensure quality control.
  • EndureAir targets high-altitude and difficult terrain operations.
  • The goal is to replace imported drone technology with local solutions.

What happens next

  • EndureAir plans to strengthen field-testing infrastructure.
  • The company will expand its manufacturing capabilities.
  • Job creation is expected in Tier II and III cities.
  • Commercial deployment of the SABAL-200 kg is targeted.

The deal

Type
grant

Investors

Founders

  • Abhishek, Co-founder
  • Rama Krishna, Co-founder
  • Chirag Jain, Co-founder

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