Bengaluru-based deep-tech startup AquaAirX has unveiled India’s first amphibious drone capable of operating both in the air and underwater. The innovation marks a significant step in the country’s growing drone and defence technology ecosystem.
Founded by Gouthami T S and Jitendra Saini, the startup is developing autonomous robotic platforms that can seamlessly transition from aerial flight to submerged operations during missions. These drones are designed to support defence intelligence, surveillance, maritime monitoring, offshore infrastructure inspection, and environmental research.
The amphibious drone enables continuous monitoring without the need for separate aerial and underwater systems, making operations faster, safer, and more cost-effective. Such dual-mode capability can play a crucial role in harbour security, underwater asset inspection, and ocean data collection.
The startup is also working on advanced autonomous underwater systems and aims to strengthen India’s indigenous maritime technology ecosystem while preparing its platforms for defence and commercial deployments in the coming years.
