Drone startup EndureAir Systems has taken a significant step in enhancing the Indian Army’s logistics capabilities by delivering its Sabal 20 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for deployment in the Eastern Theatre along the India-China frontier. This move is part of the Indian Army's ongoing initiative to incorporate new and emerging technologies to improve operational efficiency in remote, high-altitude areas. The Sabal 20 drone, which can carry a 20 kg payload, is expected to replace or supplement traditional logistics methods, such as using mules, ponies, and manned helicopters, to deliver essential supplies to forward posts.

The delivery of the Sabal 20 UAV marks an important milestone for both EndureAir Systems and the Indian Army, reflecting a growing commitment to leveraging advanced technologies. In an interaction with ET Infra, Rama Krishna, CEO and co-founder of EndureAir, emphasized that the Army’s procurement of these drones would allow the military to replace traditional methods of replenishing frontier posts. The drone will be tested in the Eastern Theatre first, with plans to expand its usage to other regions such as the northern and central theatre commands based on successful trials.

The Sabal 20 is described as a multirole, multi-utility UAV, designed for not only logistics but also surveillance and potential weaponization, depending on its evolving needs. With its successful acceptance trials, the Sabal 20 is seen as a critical asset for enhancing logistical operations, especially in remote and challenging terrains. Additionally, the army’s decision to procure the drone under the Army Commanders Special Financial Powers route highlights the urgency and importance of integrating such technologies, which can be procured without a lengthy approval process, within a budget limit of Rs 15 crore.

The success of EndureAir’s Sabal 20 drone underscores the growing importance of drones in modern military operations. With significant funding and strategic partnerships, including seed funding from Jalaj Dani, co-promoter of Asian Paints, EndureAir is well-positioned to further expand its capabilities in India’s aerospace and defense sectors. The company has also been shortlisted for the government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, enhancing the potential for domestic drone manufacturing growth.