Entry of AI in cockpit – Indian startups to decide the fate of Technologies for future war -S.K. Singh ex-Scientist DRDO and Entrepreneur
– S.K. Singh (ex-Scientist: DRDO and Entrepreneur)
In Operation “Sindoor”, AI played a crucial role in enhancing India’s military capabilities, particularly in autonomous warfare and precision strikes. AI-powered drones and systems were instrumental in target identification, real-time intelligence gathering, and conducting precision attacks with minimal collateral damage. India is tapping its domestic start-up ecosystem for technological innovation and self-reliance in defence especially in AI Technology. Indian entrepreneurs are developing niche technologies which will boost the Indian military’s combat capabilities.
AI plays a multifaceted role in modern fighter jets, from optimizing weapons systems and sensors to enhancing decision-making and potentially even pilot safety and mission effectiveness. It can also assist in autonomous operations and data analysis for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).
The next version of AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft), a project announced by Government of India is likely to have a collaboration of DRDO/ADA and Indian private industries like Tata, L&T, Adani and others. AI plays a crucial role in the AMCA, primarily through an “Electronic Pilot (E-Pilot)” that assists pilots in complex combat scenarios, enhances situational awareness, and enables the aircraft to operate more effectively in challenging environments. The AMCA’s AI systems will also contribute to sensor fusion, predictive maintenance, and net-centric warfare capabilities.
The AMCA, under development by DRDO is a future-oriented concept. While the current AMCA program focuses on a 5.5-generation fighter (AMCA Mark 1), the Mark 2 is envisioned to incorporate 6th-generation technologies by 2040. This includes AI-driven systems, directed energy weapons, and loyal wingman UCAVs. The Mark 2 also aims for enhanced stealth, improved sensors, and a diverter less supersonic inlet. Under “Atmnirbhar Bharat” push the programme will be implemented by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in collaboration with industry partners. The execution framework ensures equal competitive opportunities for both private and public sectors.
Several prominent Indian AI startups are making waves in the technology landscape. Global experts back nation’s rise as deep tech leader. India is poised to lead in AI and deep tech, leveraging its vast digital data and emerging expertise. India has the right momentum and resources to emerge as a global leader through military technologies and AMCA version 2.0 can be an opportunity which can create reverse migration of Indian startups in USA and Europe, if the Government of India and the flagship Indian companies engaged in Defence production/ manufacturing play their cards strategically.
Beyond doubt, AI is likely play a significant role in future wars, enhancing various aspects of military operations and raising ethical concerns. It can improve target recognition, data processing, and decision-making speed, potentially leading to faster and more efficient conflict outcomes. However, AI-powered weapons also introduce risks like unintended consequences, potential for hacking, and ethical dilemmas related to autonomous decision-making. There is a lot of hidden potential and opportunities in AI based technology, where big private companies may not be able to do justice as their charter is mostly confined to product engineering and manufacturing.
Indian tech startups are making significant strides in the Défense industry, contributing to innovation, self-reliance, and cost-effectiveness. They are developing technologies like unmanned aerial systems (UAS), AI, robotics, and precision manufacturing, creating solutions tailored for the armed forces. These startups are addressing critical challenges with agility and are becoming key players in the Indian Défense ecosystem.
Indian defence startups are projected to play a significant role in the country’s growing defence industry. The sector is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14% from FY 2024 to FY 2030, and startups are contributing to this growth by innovating and developing new technologies. These startups are not only meeting the needs of the Indian armed forces but also positioning India as a global leader in defence technology. India’s defense sector is poised for significant growth, fueled by indigenization efforts and a robust order pipeline, according to a Nirmal Bang report. Defence production is projected to reach Rs 1.75 trillion by FY25, aiming for Rs 3 trillion by 2029.
Several venture capital firms in India are increasingly focused on defense technology startups. Titan Capital has launched a dedicated investment vertical for this sector. Other prominent VC firms like Accel India, Blume Ventures, and Matrix Partners India also invest in various deep-tech sectors, including defense and aerospace. Additionally, government initiatives like iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) are creating a pipeline of potential defense tech startups. India’s defence sector is seeing increasing wealth creation through startups, driven by government initiatives and rising investor interest. Startups in areas like counter-drone systems, aerospace, and cybersecurity are attracting significant funding. This is fueled by the “Make in India” initiative and the increasing need for self-reliance in defence.
The government is also tapping the start-up ecosystem through its flagship Innovations in Defence Excellence (iDEX) programme. iDEX works with R&D institutes, academia, industry, start-ups and individual innovators by providing them funding of up to Rs. 1.5 crores to create solutions for the military’s technological problems. Since its launch in 2018, iDEX has been hosting the Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC) which awards start-ups for mentoring and funding, based on their ability to solve specific technological challenges posed by the military.
The latest developments in India’s fifth-generation AMCA project are significant from airpower, geopolitical, and defence manufacturing standpoints. If executed successfully, this programme will boost India’s strategic autonomy and resilience, especially in times of conflict.
India’s technology landscape is vibrant. Powered by government support for technology research, development, and deployment, the country is undergoing rapid digital transformation. The AI in cockpit is likely to change the landscape of technology development for Indian startups. – SK Singh (Statistical data used in this writeup is taken from net)
