In this exclusive interview with StartupTalky, we speak with Vikram Singh Meena, Founder and CEO of TechEagle, a pioneering company in drone delivery solutions. With a focus on enhancing logistics through drone technology, TechEagle is enabling faster, more efficient, and cost-effective delivery services, particularly in remote and underserved areas. Vikram discusses the journey behind building TechEagle, the advanced UAV technology driving the company’s operations, and its potential to transform industries such as healthcare, e-commerce, and agriculture through innovative aerial logistics.
StartupTalky: What inspired you to start TechEagle, and what does the company offer through its drone delivery services?
Mr. Vikram: The inspiration behind TechEagle is deeply personal. Growing up in the small village of Kishanganj in Rajasthan, I witnessed firsthand the harsh realities of limited access to essential services like healthcare and basic commerce. Losing loved ones due to the unavailability of timely medical care left a profound impact on me. This personal drive to address such challenges led me to explore drone technology during my time at IIT-Kanpur, where we initially developed fixed-wing drones for long-range deliveries.
When I met Anshu (TechEagle, Co-founder & COO), we shared a vision of solving broader logistical challenges through technology, aiming to revolutionize last-mile logistics and ensure that critical resources reach everyone, everywhere. Our collaboration took a significant leap when we decided to work together on developing solutions that could overcome existing barriers in logistics. As our operations expanded to Lucknow, we encountered the challenge of limited runway access for operating fixed-wing drones. This obstacle led us to develop rotary-wing drones capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), commonly known as quadcopters. This innovation eliminated the need for runways and allowed us to make history in 2018 by delivering the world’s first tea via drone in Lucknow.
As we gained more experience with rotary-wing drones and received valuable feedback, we recognized their limitations, such as higher power consumption and shorter range. To overcome these challenges and better serve a variety of logistics needs, we developed India’s first hybrid eVTOL drone—a pioneering aircraft that combines the vertical takeoff capabilities of a helicopter with the long-range efficiency of a fixed-wing plane. This unique combination, embodied in our flagship product Vertiplane X3, makes our drones ideal for efficient, long-range deliveries across diverse terrains and environments, both urban and rural, giving us the flexibility to work across the entire spectrum with our clients.
StartupTalky: With TechEagle’s significant market share, how do you ensure the reliability and safety of your drone operations, especially in e-commerce and defense applications?
Mr. Vikram: At TechEagle, reliability and safety are the foundation of our operations. We take a holistic approach to drone innovation, overseeing every step from design and development to in-house manufacturing. This end-to-end control ensures that every component of our drones meets the highest standards of quality and safety.
Our drones are equipped with cutting-edge sensory technology, including proprietary detect-and-avoid systems, obstacle avoidance, and GPS night navigation. These advanced features are crucial for ensuring safe, long-range BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) flights, even in the most challenging environments. The integration of our autopilot propulsion system and onboard computing allows our drones to execute complex tasks with unparalleled precision, making them exceptionally reliable for applications ranging from e-commerce to defense.
To maintain continuous communication and control, our drones utilize a proprietary, redundant communication system that operates seamlessly across multiple networks, including Radio Frequency, 4G, 5G, and Satellite Communication. This system ensures that our drones remain connected to ground control stations throughout their flights, significantly enhancing
Our commitment to innovation and safety was further recognised by our win in the Qualcomm Design India Challenge in 2022.
StartupTalky: What technological innovations set TechEagle’s drones apart from competitors?
Mr. Vikram: TechEagle’s drones are distinguished by several cutting-edge technological innovations that make them highly versatile and adaptable across a broad spectrum of industries:
- Long-Range and High Payload Capacity: Our drones are designed for extended flights with significant payload capabilities, making them ideal for a wide range of logistics applications. Whether operating in dense urban areas or challenging environments, our drones ensure reliable and efficient delivery of essential goods, from medical supplies to everyday consumer products.
- 5G and AI-Driven Command and Control Module: We’ve developed a state-of-the-art plug-and-play module that leverages 5G connectivity and AI to command and control an entire fleet of drones from a central hub. This system streamlines operations, enhances safety, reduces the need for manual intervention, and ensures continuous situational awareness across different sectors.
- Advanced Software Solutions: Our proprietary software suite offers robust mission planning, real-time monitoring, and comprehensive data analytics. These tools give operators unparalleled control over their drone operations, optimizing both efficiency and safety. The software is designed to be intuitive and flexible, catering to the diverse logistics needs of various industries.
- Customization to Industry Needs: We specialize in designing and manufacturing drones that are specifically tailored to meet the demands of sectors like logistics, healthcare, and defense. Our focus on customization ensures that our drones are not just versatile but also optimized to tackle the specific challenges of each industry, providing our clients with solutions that truly fit their needs.
- Scalability and Future-Readiness: TechEagle’s drones are built with scalability in mind, allowing for easy expansion of operations as client needs grow. Our modular design and software architecture enables seamless integration of new technologies and capabilities, ensuring that our drones remain at the cutting edge of innovation.
StartupTalky: What challenges have you encountered in operating drones for defense purposes, and how have you addressed them?
Mr. Vikram: Operating drones for defense applications presents several unique challenges that require advanced technological solutions and rigorous engineering to overcome. Here are the key challenges and how TechEagle has addressed them:
- Reliability in Extreme and Unpredictable Conditions: Defense operations often take place in environments with extreme weather, high altitudes, and potentially hazardous terrains. Ensuring that our drones can perform reliably under these conditions has been a significant challenge. To address this, we have invested heavily in robust R&D to develop drones that meet and exceed global safety and reliability standards. Our drones undergo rigorous testing in simulated environments to ensure they can withstand extreme conditions while maintaining operational integrity.
- Navigation in GPS-Denied Environments: In many defense scenarios, GPS signals can be jammed or unavailable, making traditional navigation systems unreliable. To overcome this, we’ve integrated advanced AI-based navigation systems, including Visual-Inertial Odometry (VIO) and Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) technologies. These systems enable our drones to navigate autonomously and precisely in GPS-denied environments by relying on onboard sensors and real-time data processing.
- Communication in Electronic Warfare (EW) Environments: Defense operations often involve environments with significant electronic interference, which can disrupt drone communications. While 5G offers benefits in some scenarios, it’s not always feasible in military operations due to the lack of cellular networks and vulnerability to jamming. Instead, we use Satellite Communication (SATCOM) systems for long-range, secure communication. These systems operate on military communication bands, providing robust, interference-resistant links that ensure continuous command and control over the drones, even in electronically contested spaces.
- Customization for Mission-Specific Requirements: Defense missions vary widely, from surveillance and reconnaissance to logistics and tactical support. Each mission demands specific drone capabilities. At TechEagle, we address this by offering extensive customization options for our drones. Whether it’s integrating specialized sensors, enhancing payload capacity, or adjusting flight characteristics, our in-house R&D team works closely with defense clients to tailor drones to their specific needs, ensuring mission success.
- Security and Compliance with Defense Standards: Security is paramount in defense operations. Our drones are designed to meet stringent defense sector requirements, including encryption for communication channels and securing data against cyber threats. We also ensure our systems are compliant with defense standards, such as Design Assurance Level-D (DAL-D) for safe remote operation, which is critical for integrating our drones into complex defense networks.
- Autonomous Operation and AI-Driven Decision-Making: In defense operations, there are scenarios where drones must operate independently without real-time human control, especially in communications-denied environments. We’ve integrated AI-driven decision-making capabilities into our drones, allowing them to autonomously navigate, identify threats, and complete missions. This autonomy is supported by advanced computer vision and machine learning algorithms, enabling the drones to react and adapt to dynamic situations on the battlefield.
Nitin Konde
StartupTalky: What were the key factors behind the success of launching Asia’s largest Drone Delivery Hub, particularly concerning e-commerce?
Mr. Vikram: The success of launching Asia’s largest drone delivery hub, especially in the context of e-commerce, can be attributed to several critical factors that go beyond just overcoming the challenges of rugged terrains:
- Strategic Infrastructure Development: Establishing the necessary operational and logistics infrastructure in challenging environments like Meghalaya required not only meticulous planning but also an innovative approach to problem-solving. We conducted extensive on-site assessments to create secure helipads and mapped out detailed flight routes that adhered to the highest safety standards.
- Leveraging Cutting-Edge Technology: Our success was also driven by the use of advanced drone technology, particularly our hybrid eVTOL drones, which combine vertical takeoff capabilities with long-range efficiency. This technology allowed us to navigate difficult terrains and deliver goods efficiently, whether it was medical supplies or e-commerce products. The drones’ high payload capacity and extended range made them ideal for covering large areas and servicing multiple locations.
- Robust Command and Control Systems: Our 5G and AI-powered command and control module was crucial in managing the entire fleet of drones from a central hub. This system not only simplified operations but also enhanced safety and reliability, enabling real-time monitoring and dynamic mission adjustments based on environmental conditions. This ensured that deliveries were not just timely but also consistent in quality.
- Collaboration with Local Authorities and Stakeholders: A significant factor in our success was the strong collaboration with local government authorities, healthcare providers, and community leaders. Their support was instrumental in gaining access to necessary locations, understanding local needs, and ensuring the smooth execution of the project. This partnership was particularly important in building trust and ensuring community acceptance of the new technology.
- Focus on Scalability and Future Expansion: From the outset, we designed the drone delivery hub with scalability in mind. This allowed us to not only meet the immediate needs of the region but also plan for future expansions. Our current operations, which impact over 1.5 million people daily by delivering essential supplies to 30% of Meghalaya, are just the beginning. We are already working on the next phase of expansion to cover 100% of the state, with plans to replicate this model across other regions in India and beyond.
- Commitment to Customer-Centric Solutions: While the initial focus was on healthcare logistics, the infrastructure and technology we developed are highly adaptable to e-commerce needs. The success of the hub is not just about delivering goods but about enhancing the customer experience by providing faster, more reliable service. This customer-centric approach is key to driving adoption in the e-commerce sector and expanding the reach of drone logistics.
- Continuous Improvement and Innovation: We view every challenge as an opportunity for growth. The insights gained from operating in such a demanding environment have informed our ongoing efforts to refine and enhance our technology and processes.
These factors combined to make the launch of Asia’s largest drone delivery hub a success, setting a new standard for drone-based logistics in e-commerce and beyond.
StartupTalky: Your drones have saved 2,500 metric tonnes in carbon emissions. How does TechEagle plan to enhance its environmental sustainability further?
Mr. Vikram: Environmental sustainability is at the core of TechEagle’s mission. While saving 2,500 metric tonnes of carbon emissions is a significant achievement, we are committed to pushing these efforts even further. We plan to enhance our sustainability through several key strategies:
- Advanced Battery Technology: We are continually improving our drones’ energy efficiency by investing in next-generation battery technology. This includes exploring solid-state batteries and other innovations that offer higher energy density, longer life cycles, and faster charging times. These advancements will reduce the energy required for each flight, minimizing our overall carbon footprint.
- Optimized Flight Algorithms: Our R&D teams are developing more sophisticated flight algorithms that optimize flight paths, reduce energy consumption, and extend operational range. By using AI and machine learning to continuously refine these algorithms, we can ensure that our drones are as energy-efficient as possible during every mission.
- Renewable Energy Integration: We are exploring the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into our operations. This includes deploying solar-powered charging stations for drones, which would further decrease the reliance on fossil fuels and reduce the carbon emissions associated with our logistics chain.
- Circular Economy Practices: We are adopting circular economy principles in our manufacturing and operations. This involves using recyclable materials in drone production, reducing waste through more efficient manufacturing processes, and developing programs for refurbishing and recycling older drone models.
These efforts are designed to make TechEagle a leader in sustainable drone technology, ensuring that our operations contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
Harshit Verma
StartupTalky: How have your partnerships with AIIMS, Swiggy, and defense organizations impacted your growth and operations?
Mr. Vikram: Our strategic partnerships with key organizations have played a pivotal role in shaping TechEagle’s growth and operational capabilities:
- Healthcare Logistics: While we have collaborated extensively with healthcare providers, such as AIIMS, to refine our drone technology for medical deliveries, our focus now is on how these experiences have enhanced our overall logistics capabilities. Working in healthcare has allowed us to develop drones that are not only reliable but also meet the stringent demands of time-sensitive and critical deliveries, which is a valuable asset across all sectors we serve.
- E-Commerce Insights: Collaborations with leading food delivery players like Swiggy and others in the e-commerce space have provided us with crucial insights into last-mile logistics. These partnerships have helped us better understand the dynamics of rapid delivery, customer expectations, and operational efficiency in urban environments.
- Defense Applications: Our work with defense organizations has driven innovation at the highest levels, focusing on security, reliability, and adaptability. Although specific details remain confidential, these collaborations have significantly expanded our technological capabilities and positioned us as a key player in providing advanced drone solutions for complex and critical missions.
In summary, our partnerships across healthcare, e-commerce, and defense have not only enhanced our technical expertise but have also allowed us to apply these learnings across different sectors, driving TechEagle’s growth and innovation.
StartupTalky: What do the recent tenders from the Ministry of Defence mean for TechEagle’s future in the defense sector?
Mr. Vikram: The recent tenders from the Ministry of Defence strongly indicate that the technology we’ve been developing is in alignment with the evolving needs of the defense sector. This is a clear sign that our efforts in building robust, adaptable, and advanced drone solutions are resonating well with the Defense industry’s demands.
Since our inception in 2015, we’ve focused on revolutionising logistics through innovation. This recognition from such a critical sector is not just a testament to the hard work and dedication we’ve put into product development—it’s also a validation of our vision to contribute meaningfully to national security through cutting-edge technology. This progress fuels our excitement as we continue to explore new possibilities in the defense sector, leveraging our expertise to meet the highest standards and expectations.
StartupTalky: What are TechEagle’s plans for expanding its services in the e-commerce and defense sectors, and what impact do you expect?
Mr. Vikram: TechEagle is strategically expanding in both e-commerce and defense sectors, focusing on areas with significant logistical challenges.
- E-Commerce: We’re targeting key regions, particularly those underserved by traditional logistics, to deploy drone delivery services. With increasing internet penetration and online shopping in lower-tier towns, our early deployments have shown promising results in enhancing last-mile logistics. By making deliveries faster and more efficient, we aim to open up new markets and improve service accessibility in these areas.
- Defense: In the defense sector, we are refining our offerings to meet specific military needs. Our VertiPlane X3 has proven effective in demanding scenarios, and we’re expanding our portfolio to address challenges like autonomous operations and electronic warfare resilience. These innovations will enhance mission effectiveness and contribute to national security.
- Impact: Our expansion will revolutionise last-mile logistics in e-commerce, while in defense, it will strengthen operational efficiency and technological superiority. This aligns with our vision to lead in drone technology, driving innovation across multiple industries.
StartupTalky: What role does funding play in your future projects, such as developing heavy payload drones and global expansion?
Mr. Vikram: Funding is essential to advancing TechEagle’s future projects, particularly in the development of heavy payload drones and driving our global expansion. Our focus on innovation, supported by fully indigenous hardware and software, demands significant investment in R&D. While funding often poses challenges for ambitious ventures, our Indian DNA, frugality at the core, and the founders’ decade-long experience in the drone and logistics domain enable us to maximise the impact of every rupee. This approach allows us to innovate efficiently without being constrained by financial limitations.
To date, we’ve successfully raised two rounds of funding from prominent VC funds, UHNIs, and visionary entrepreneurs. This capital not only fuels our current innovations but also provides strategic guidance that shapes our growth trajectory. While we don’t face a funding crunch, we remain open to additional investments from vision-aligned partners who can help further accelerate our mission to revolutionise logistics. We will also be going for our Series A soon.
In essence, funding is not just about securing capital; it’s about ensuring sustainable growth and maintaining our leadership in drone technology as we scale our operations across industries in India. While we’ve made significant strides, the continuous pursuit of innovation means that additional funding will always be welcome to fully realise our vision of transforming logistics on a global scale.
StartupTalky: Looking ahead, what are the key innovations or trends in drone technology that you believe will shape the future of logistics?
Mr. Vikram: The future of logistics is set to be transformed by several key innovations in drone technology, with a strong focus on autonomy and integration into global networks:
- Heavy Payload Drones: The development of heavy payload drones is poised to revolutionize mid-mile and first-mile logistics. These drones will enable the transport of larger quantities of goods over greater distances, significantly reducing costs—potentially by up to 80%. This innovation will facilitate more integrated and efficient supply chains, making logistics faster, more reliable, and cost-effective, while also addressing challenges in reaching remote or hard-to-access areas.
- Autonomous Operations through AI and Machine Learning: Advances in AI and machine learning are driving drones towards greater autonomy. Drones equipped with these technologies can learn and adapt to new environments, making them capable of safe operation in complex and dynamic conditions, such as urban landscapes. This enhanced autonomy is crucial for expanding the use of drones in both commercial and defense sectors, particularly in GPS-denied or communication-challenged environments.
- Airspace Traffic Management (UTM): The integration of drones into airspace traffic management systems, also known as Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM), will be a key trend. As drone operations increase, seamless UTM systems that ensure safe and efficient operation of both manned and unmanned vehicles will be essential. These systems will allow drones to efficiently navigate through busy airspaces, particularly in urban areas.
- Regulatory Evolution for Autonomous Flight: The success of autonomous drone operations will heavily rely on the evolution of regulatory frameworks. Aviation authorities worldwide are increasingly developing regulations that support autonomous flight, including standards for AI-driven decision-making, fail-safe mechanisms, and data security. These frameworks are essential for scaling autonomous drone logistics globally.
- Advanced Autopilot and Navigation Systems: The next generation of autopilot systems, integrated with AI and sensor fusion technologies, will allow drones to operate with greater autonomy. These systems will enable precise navigation, obstacle detection, and collision avoidance, even in complex and crowded airspaces. This will be particularly important for expanding drone operations in urban environments.
- 5G and Satellite Communication (SATCOM) Synergy: While 5G will enhance real-time communication in areas with robust infrastructure, satellite communication will ensure connectivity in remote or underserved regions. The synergy between these technologies will support the global deployment of autonomous drone fleets, making logistics more resilient and reliable.
These innovations will drive the logistics industry towards a more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective future. TechEagle is excited to be at the forefront of this transformation, leveraging these trends to shape the future of logistics and Urban Air Mobility on a global scale.
Nitin Konde
