SOURCE: AFI
In a significant step toward advancing India’s indigenous aerospace capabilities, the Technology Transfer Office and Intellectual Property Management (IPM) Cell of IIT Madras have signed a Technology Licensing Agreement with Tunga Aerospace Industries Private Limited. The agreement, formalized on April 13, 2025, transfers the technology for a “Quadrotor Bi-Plane Tailsitter Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)” developed by a team led by Dr. Bharath Govindarajan and Prof. P.A. Ramakrishna from the Department of Aerospace Engineering.
This cutting-edge UAV design represents a breakthrough in transition unmanned aerial systems (UAS), engineered specifically for monitoring and surveillance applications. The quadrotor bi-plane tailsitter combines the vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities of a quadcopter with the efficient forward flight of a fixed-wing aircraft. This hybrid configuration enables the UAV to hover with precision for surveillance tasks while covering larger areas during extended missions, making it ideal for both civilian and defence applications.
The technology’s unique design addresses critical challenges in UAV versatility, offering enhanced stability, energy efficiency, and adaptability to diverse environments. Dr. Govindarajan emphasized that the UAV’s ability to seamlessly transition between hovering and cruising modes sets it apart, catering to real-time monitoring needs in sectors like disaster management, border security, and infrastructure inspection.
Tunga Aerospace, a Bengaluru-based innovator in aerospace solutions, will now spearhead the commercialization and deployment of this technology. The licensing agreement underscores IIT Madras’ commitment to fostering industry-academia collaboration, ensuring that cutting-edge research translates into practical solutions. Prof. Ramakrishna highlighted that the partnership aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in defence and aerospace, contributing to the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
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