The Surya Command of Indian Army will be hosting a drone competition, Surya Dronathon 2025, in collaboration with Drone Federation India, inviting participation from talented freelancers and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) from across the country. The first-of-its-kind event is being organized in the scenic and yet, arduous environs of Spiti Valley at Sumdo (HP), which boasts of one of the highest drone obstacle courses in the country, at 10700 feet, where the participants will be expected to exhibit their prowess in rarified atmosphere and strong wind conditions. This initiative of Indian Army’s is aimed at harnessing cutting-edge indigenous technology and fostering a robust ecosystem of innovation in the defence sector, aligning with the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” vision and Indian Army’s quest towards technological infusion in the decade of transformation.
The competition aims to encourage the development of advanced drone solutions tailored to meet the evolving operational requirements of the Indian Army, and will serve as a dynamic platform for showcasing novel designs, technological breakthroughs, and innovative military applications of drone technology, contributing directly to enhanced national security, especially in the backdrop of recent military conflicts.
Key objectives of the competition include promoting indigenous research, development and manufacturing of advanced drone systems within India, identifying next-generation solutions to address current and future operational requirements, and fostering collaboration by creating a direct interface between the Indian Army, individual innovators, startups, and established defence manufacturers.
The event will have participation in 3 major categories starting from Service personnel, Open category/ Freelance pilots and Original Equipment Manufacturers with the last date for registration being 05 August 25.The event will be conducted in two phases from 10-15 August 25 and 20-24 August 25 in Sumdo,HP.The competitors will compete in multiple stages, including drone race, obstacle and rigorous field trials conducted under realistic operational conditions against the vagaries of weather and terrain. Prizes and potential procurement opportunities await the top contenders, providing a direct pathway for their innovations to be integrated into the Indian Army’s operational framework.
Details regarding the competition guidelines, eligibility criteria, registration process, and timelines have also been released on the official social media handles of Surya Command and Uttar Bharat Area.
