New Delhi: India is fast emerging as a formidable new competitor in the defence export market, long controlled by the US, Russia, and China.
Making its presence felt on the global defence stage, the indigenous Kaal Bhairav drone won a silver medal at the 23rd International Exhibition of Innovations 2025 in Zagreb, Croatia. The win shows that Made-in-India defence technology is now competing and succeeding alongside some of the world’s best.
It was more than just another trophy. It announced India’s arrival as a serious player in cutting-edge defence technology, armed with a fully indigenous AI-powered combat drone that can go toe-to-toe with anything Western nations produce.
India’s first AI-driven Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) autonomous combat aircraft – Kaal Bhairav E2A2, built entirely by Flying Wedge Defense and Aerospace, represents a massive breakthrough in India’s military technology capabilities.
Kaal Bhairav can fly for 30 hours at a stretch and cover 3,000 km. Its onboard systems manage mission planning, targeting and coordinated swarm actions on their own. The figures are impressive: meaning India now has a drone platform capable of carrying out complex operations with a high level of autonomy.
With its rugged and highly adaptable features Kaal Bhairav stands out. Its smart onboard systems and multi-sensor setup allow it to strike from multiple directions with precision. Even if enemies try to jam its signals something that usually forces drones to land Kaal Bhairav can continue flying and finish its mission.
Kaal Bhairav’s modular build makes it useful in many roles: precise attacks, electronic warfare, wide-area maritime surveillance, and real-time information sharing on the battlefield. Most importantly, it gives India a fully homegrown and far more affordable option compared to costly foreign drones. India has clearly entered the global drone race with confidence.
Flying Wedge CEO Suhas Tejaskanda after winning silver, said, “This victory proves India’s technological strength. Our goal is clear: Made in India, for the world.”
“India must build its own weapons and technology to end foreign dependency. Kaal Bhairav represents completely Indian design, manufacturing, and AI innovation. This strengthens Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” he stressed and pointed that it matters strategically.
The win in Croatia is both recognition and validation from the international community. India’s technological capabilities are being reassessed by countries worldwide. Long controlled by the US, Russia, and China, the defence export market now has a formidable new competitor India. The world is paying attention to India’s arrival in the global drone market.
