Zebu's $1M Boost: Pioneering India's Defence Tech with Cutting-Edge Drones

Indian defence tech startup Zebu has secured $1 million in pre-series A funding, led by Bluehill VC. This investment is set to accelerate the development and deployment of Zebu's mission-critical drones, transitioning them from prototype to battlefield readiness.

Fast-Tracking Innovation

With this funding, Zebu aims to enhance field testing and achieve production readiness, positioning itself as a key supplier to the Indian armed forces. The Hyderabad-based company specializes in counter-drone and unmanned systems, crucial for modern military operations.

"The global counter drone market is expected to reach $11 billion by 2030. Zebu is rightly positioned to capture this market with its top-of-the-line offerings for the armed forces," said Sridhar Parthasarathi, General Partner at Bluehill VC.

Breakthrough Technologies

Zebu has made significant strides with its IAF Net Capture Drone, a revolutionary system capable of trapping hostile drones mid-air. In just six months, this technology has progressed from a skeletal model to achieving military grade certification milestones.

Additionally, Zebu is developing an Anti-Drone Swarm System for the Indian Air Force, featuring rapid-fire pneumatic launchers. This system is slated for operational readiness by late 2025.

"The battlefield of the future is AI-led and unmanned, that is inevitable — Zebu is making it indigenously available," emphasized Santosh Balajee, Founder and CEO of Zebu. He highlighted the opportunity to bridge the tech integration gap in India's defense sector and export India's defense sovereignty globally.