- Indian eVTOL pioneer BonV Aero gains access to UK Ministry of Defence’s UAS Heavy Lift Capability Framework, paving the way for international defense collaborations.
International: BonV Aero, India’s first Indigenous deep tech eVTOL and drone manufacturing startup has been selected to join the Unmanned Aerial Systems Heavy Lift Capability (UASHLC) Framework. This initiative, led by the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) under its Future Capability Innovation division, facilitates collaboration between global innovators and suppliers in the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) sector, focusing on heavy-lift capabilities.
This selection provides BonV Aero a platform to engage with the UK and other NATO countries, expanding its presence in the global defence ecosystem. As part of the framework, BonV Aero will be eligible to bid on tasking requirements and participate in mini-competitions for UAS solutions.
“Being part of the UASHLC Framework underscores the relevance of our heavy-lift eVTOL technology in meeting the evolving needs of defence forces around the world. We look forward to collaborating with NATO countries and allied defence organisations,” said Satyabrata Satapathy, Founder and CEO of BonV Aero.
BonV Aero designs and manufactures high-payload eVTOLs with applications in defence, logistics and emergency response. Its Air Orca eVTOL, capable of transporting heavy cargo over long distances has already been deployed by the Indian Army.
Participation in the UASHLC Framework validates BonV Aero’s technology and enhances its visibility in international markets. The company aims to collaborate with defence innovators and pursue long-term contracts and partnerships.
“This recognition reaffirms our strengths in designing and manufacturing heavy-payload aerial vehicles. We aim to demonstrate the utility of our high-payload drones in various operational scenarios globally,” added Satapathy.
BonV Aero’s inclusion in the UASHLC Framework highlights the growing capabilities of Indian start-ups and their spirit of innovation. The company is committed to advancing unmanned aerial capabilities and fostering international partnerships.