The Indian Navy’s motto, “Sam no Varunah”—translated as “Be auspicious unto us, Oh Varuna” – has been much more than a guiding principle for Tardid. For us, the Navy has been a steadfast anchor, providing not just belief in our mission but a direction toward innovation and excellence. As we reflect on Navy Day, the story of Tardid’s growth and our association with the Indian Navy feels like revisiting a voyage of perseverance, collaboration, and shared dreams.
Setting Sail: The Beginning of a Vision
Our journey began with a nervous yet determined meeting at the Office of the Chief of Materials in Sena Bhawan. Two young founders – armed with ambition and a novel idea – found themselves addressing over 20 senior naval officers. It was a defining moment: our proposal was uncharted territory, one that could easily be dismissed or, worse, ridiculed. Yet, the Indian Navy showed something rare and extraordinary – an open mind.
Though initial interest was limited, as the discussions progressed, senior officers began to see the potential in what we were proposing. They recognised that for the Indian Navy to dominate the global maritime arena, it needed to adopt cutting-edge technologies, even those that were in nascent stages worldwide. This moment marked the beginning of a relationship rooted in mutual trust and a shared commitment to innovation.
For the Indian Navy to dominate the global maritime arena, it needs to adopt cutting-edge technologies, even those that are in nascent stages worldwide
A Strong Foundation: The Visionary Leaders Behind It
As we recount our journey, it would be remiss not to express our deepest gratitude to the visionaries who facilitated the beginning of these initiatives. Admiral Hari Kumar, former Chief of Naval Staff, whose leadership emphasised the importance of indigenous innovation and collaboration. Vice Admiral Satish Namdeo Ghormade, former Vice Chief of Naval Staff, who championed the integration of new technologies into naval operations. Dr Ajay Kumar, former Defence Secretary, whose unwavering support for initiatives like iDEX provided startups like ours the platform to contribute meaningfully to India’s defence ecosystem.
Their guidance, encouragement, and commitment to fostering innovation laid the groundwork for Tardid’s collaboration with the Indian Navy.
Our maiden project with the Indian Navy was nothing short of transformative. Working on an AI-based Fatigue Life Measurement of a Hull, we ventured into untested waters, addressing a critical need with cutting-edge technology
The First Milestone: An AI-Driven Collaboration
Our maiden project with the Indian Navy was nothing short of transformative. Working on an AI-based Fatigue Life Measurement of a Hull, we ventured into untested waters, addressing a critical need with cutting-edge technology. While the details of this project remain confidential, the success and appreciation it garnered gave us the confidence to dream bigger.
Encouraged by this initial success, we began exploring other avenues where artificial intelligence could add value to the Navy’s operations. The Indian Navy’s openness to dialogue and experimentation was pivotal. Platforms like the Naval Research Board (NRB) and IMPRINT Challenges, along with direct orders, became avenues for us to contribute niche, AI-driven solutions to strengthen India’s maritime capabilities.
Expanding Horizons: Partnerships and Innovation
By February 2021, our collaboration had taken deeper roots. After Aero India concluded, Commodore Arun Golaya and his team visited our office, spending an entire day understanding our capabilities and exploring potential collaborations. This visit was a testament to the Navy’s proactive approach to fostering innovation.
In January 2022, we formalised our partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Navy for research and innovation in futuristic combat technologies. This MoU signalled a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of defence technology.
The collaboration with the Indian Navy has been a catalyst for some of Tardid’s most groundbreaking innovations. One such product is the Electric Black Marlin, an electric outboard motor proudly “Made in India”
Our journey reached new heights with the Ministry of Defence’s launch of iDEX DISC 7 (SPRINT), a special initiative to encourage Indian startups and MSMEs to contribute to Aatmanirbhar Bharat. This initiative not only gave us a platform but also inspired countless young companies to dream of creating defence export-ready products.
Transformative Creations: From Ideas to Impact
The collaboration with the Indian Navy has been a catalyst for some of Tardid’s most groundbreaking innovations. One such product is the Electric Black Marlin, an electric outboard motor proudly “Made in India”. Designed specifically to meet the Navy’s requirements, this product has exceeded expectations, garnering attention from both domestic and international markets.
The Electric Black Marlin features AI-based torque optimisation, enabling an 18% increase in output using the same battery, and is equipped with advanced safety features, making it a favourite in commercial markets as well. This product would not exist if it weren’t for the Navy’s articulated needs, a testament to how collaboration fuels innovation.
Building on this momentum, we independently developed the Aquatle Meglan, an Autonomous Surveillance Vessel. Entirely indigenous, Meglan’s design, propulsion, and functionality were developed in-house. Showcased at Eurosatory 2024 in Paris, this vessel has been lauded by global audiences and is poised to make waves in the international defence market.
A Partnership Anchored in Vision
Our journey with the Indian Navy is a story of consistent collaboration and shared aspirations. It’s a relationship that not only helped us grow but also reaffirmed our commitment to contributing to India’s maritime defence capabilities.
Today, under the visionary leadership of Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, CNS, and Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, VCNS, the Indian Navy has demonstrated unwavering support for innovation. Leaders like them have created an ecosystem where companies like Tardid can thrive, ensuring that the Indian Navy remains among the most advanced in the world.
Tardid independently developed the Aquatle Meglan, an Autonomous Surveillance Vessel. Its design, propulsion, and functionality were developed in-house. Showcased at Eurosatory 2024 in Paris, this vessel has been lauded by global audiences and is poised to make waves in the international defence market
Looking Ahead: A Shared Mission
As we celebrate Navy Day, we take immense pride in our association with the Indian Navy. This partnership has been both a privilege and a responsibility, driving us to innovate and contribute to the nation’s defence.
For Tardid, this is just the beginning. We remain committed to working alongside the Indian Navy, envisioning a future where our shared efforts make India a global leader in maritime technology.
Jai Hind!
-The writer, a dynamic technocrat, is Chief Operating Officer at Tardid who expertly manages operations, partnerships, and sales. She is dedicated to unlocking the full potential of Tardid’s capabilities and innovation and driving its success. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
