Chennai-based drone manufacturer Garuda Aerospace has received an export licence and is set to begin shipments to international markets including the United States, Australia, and several countries in the Middle East, the company said in a statement on Monday.
Founded by Agnishwar Jayaprakash, the company plans to focus its export push on its flagship Garuda Kisan Drone, designed for precision agriculture and farm productivity enhancement. The firm also aims to serve surveillance and security needs in Middle Eastern geographies, where demand for high-end unmanned aerial systems is rising.
“This export licence is a monumental step in our journey to becoming a leading global drone exporter. It reflects our commitment to diversifying revenue streams beyond India and capitalising on early-mover advantages in emerging drone markets,” said Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO, Garuda Aerospace. He added that the move aligns with the government’s ‘Make in India for the World’ vision.
Global presence
The company already has a presence in Sri Lanka and has entered into strategic partnerships with global defence and technology companies such as Elbit Systems, Lockheed Martin, Thales, Cognizant, and SAS Greece.
In April 2025, Garuda Aerospace raised Rs 100 crore in a Series B funding round led by Venture Catalysts, pegging its valuation at $250 million. Earlier, in 2024, cricketer MS Dhoni, who has been the brand ambassador of the firm since 2022, increased his stake by 1.1%, following an investment of Rs 4 crore. The company is reportedly preparing for a public listing in the near future.
IPO in sight
As Garuda Aerospace sharpens its focus on global expansion and prepares for an eventual IPO, the company is also doubling down on defence and dual-use drone technologies. Over the past few months, Garuda has conducted multiple demonstrations for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, showcasing drones equipped for surveillance, payload delivery, landmine detection, and even rocket launches. In an interview with BW Businessworld, the company revealed that its innovation pipeline includes amphibious drones and ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) systems, underscoring its ambition to become a full-spectrum drone manufacturer. With 70% of its current revenue drawn from precision agriculture, Garuda’s strategy remains rooted in civilian utility even as it builds defence capabilities, positioning itself as a dual-purpose drone firm aligned with both national priorities and emerging global demand.