Garuda Aerospace and Himachal Futuristic Communications Ltd (HFCL) have signed an MoU at Aero India 2025 to advance AI-driven UAV technology. The partnership will enhance indigenous drone capabilities for defence, agriculture, surveillance, industrial inspection, disaster response, and logistics. 

Under the agreement, HFCL will develop advanced payloads, including EO/IR sensors, LiDAR, and AI-powered communication systems, which Garuda Aerospace will integrate into its UAV platforms. These drones will support disaster management with thermal imaging, enable smart city surveillance via high-resolution cameras and 5G networks, and optimise logistics with AI-powered cargo drones. 

The collaboration also includes joint research on AI, machine learning, and sensor fusion to develop next-generation UAVs with enhanced autonomy, swarm capabilities, and extended flight times. This initiative aligns with India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision and aims to boost the country’s presence in the global drone market. 

(businessworld)