Optiemus Unmanned Systems (OUS), a subsidiary of Optiemus Infracom Limited, has unveiled a new range of indigenously designed and manufactured drones tailored for agricultural and mapping applications. This launch, showcased at the 5th Drone International Expo at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, aligns with the Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative and aims to support the agricultural sector with advanced technology.
Drone as a Service (DaaS) Strategy
OUS is introducing a ‘Drone as a Service’ (DaaS) strategy to penetrate target markets, planning to train around 6,000 pilots to manage a fleet of 5,000 drones by the end of 2025. Optiemus Infracom will invest approximately INR 140 crore in this project, with an anticipated service revenue between INR 600 to 900 crore by the end of 2025.
Focus on Indigenization and Farmer Prosperity
The company aims to achieve a minimum of 65% indigenization, aspiring to increase this to 75% by the end of the financial year. Key components like the power distribution board, anti-spark switch, flight controller, airframe, and motor are already localized. This initiative is expected to aid farmers by enhancing farmland productivity, reducing input costs, and thereby increasing their incomes.
Affordable and Efficient Solutions
OUS’s Agri Shakti 10L drone, priced at INR 2.25 lakhs plus GST, is designed for precision farming and pesticide spraying. It features a 10-liter spray tank and can cover an acre in approximately seven minutes. The Vajra QC P20, another product in their portfolio, is a precision agriculture and mapping drone weighing 2 kg, with a flight duration of over 30 minutes and a maximum range of 4 km, capable of surveying 0.5 to 1 sq. km. These drones are set to revolutionize agricultural practices by providing cost-effective and efficient solutions.
Comprehensive After-Sales Support
OUS emphasizes robust after-sales service and support, ensuring smooth operations by maintaining a standby set of drones and components. A team of qualified technicians will provide the necessary operational support, addressing issues like lack of operational know-how and spare part scarcity.
Strategic Partnerships
OUS is engaging with multiple national and state-run cooperative societies, government organizations, and agricultural universities to promote the adoption of these drones. The company’s innovative hub-and-spoke model aims to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of agricultural practices across India.
Vision for the Future
Ashok Kumar Gupta, Chairman of Optiemus Infracom Limited, underlined the company’s commitment to revolutionizing traditional farming practices and enhancing crop yields while promoting sustainability. He highlighted the extensive research that informed their business model, addressing practical challenges such as operational know-how and spare parts availability.