Founded in 1988, Ukay Metal Industries Private Limited has built a reputation as a leader in manufacturing precision components for the automotive and industrial sectors. With over 1,200 professionals specializing in design, engineering, and systems integration, the company has diversified into advanced domains like polymer processing, embedded systems, and 3D imaging.
The group’s core strengths lie in automotive integration, supplying OEM with press metal parts, injection-molded components, and air-conditioning systems. Its global footprint includes exporting products to international markets, such as branded air coolers and luggage, while its innovation hub drives advancements in photonics, material science, and robotics. This strong foundation positioned Ukay to venture into aerospace, culminating in the birth of Ukay Aerodynamics. (Aviation wing).
Strategic Collaboration
A path breaking moment in Ukay’s trajectory was its technical collaboration with Pentagon Performance Industries LLC, a US-based firm led by Veteran Anthony La Sure. With a background in NASA’s Integrated Systems Research Program and UAS Traffic Management initiatives, La Sure brought unparalleled expertise in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) payloads and mission systems. The PPI team of Rafael Padilla, Vinny Cooper & Karen Di Meo have in depth knowledge in the industry of UAV and its Mission program.
The collaboration’s key highlights include La Sure’s team overseeing budgets exceeding $500 million for UAV traffic systems, joint drills conducted by engineers from India, the US, and Madrid, in Spain, and alignment with India’s national goals to indigenous defence and aerospace technology.
“This collaboration elevates Ukay to a new level of innovation,”quips Rajendra Katore, Chairman of Ukay Group, Accompanied by Mr Bartholomeo Paul (COO) of Ukay Aero dynamics during a demonstration of the Alpha UAVs.
Alpha 900 and Alpha 800
The Alpha 900 and Alpha 800 are Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAVs designed for endurance and adaptability. Their fuel-powered systems offer advantages over battery-dependent drones, especially in extended missions.
These UAVs boast payload versatility, supporting EO/ IR cameras, LIDAR, and custom sensors for surveillance, mapping, or marine patrol. Their autonomous operation enables fully automated flights from take-off to landing, controllable via Ground Control Stations (GCS), or ship-based Vessel Control Station (VCS).
Control Stations (VCS). Portability is another standout feature, with the systems compact enough to fit in two flight cases and transportable by small vehicles.
Proven applications include marine security, with successful trials demonstrating the Alpha’s ability to land on moving vessels—a boon for coastal surveillance. Military reconnaissance also benefits from their long endurance (up to 4+ hours) and resilience in harsh environments. In a symbolic test, Chairman Katore lifted the Alpha 800 to underscore its portability—a feature critical for field deployments.
Engaging With Decision-Makers
Alpha Unmanned Systems has been actively engaging with defence leaders and decision-makers at major international forums, reinforcing the strategic value of its helicopter UAV technology. Recent participation at Xponential Europe in Düsseldorf and the ENDR European Naval Event in Cartagena provided critical platforms to demonstrate the Alpha 900 and Alpha 800 systems to military and civil stakeholders. At these events, the Alpha team held highlevel discussions on adapting UAV capabilities for diverse operational needs—from maritime patrol to battlefield reconnaissance. The dialogues underscored the increasing tactical reliance on unmanned systems in modern defence architectures, particularly for missions requiring endurance, payload flexibility, and ship-based operations.
The Road Ahead
Ukay Aerodynamics aims to position India as a hub for UAV manufacturing and innovation. Key initiatives include localised production to scale assembly lines for the Alpha series -900/800 and the new version of 900T under Make in India, training programs to certify pilots and technicians through simulators and remote support, and bidding for defence contracts in security and disaster management.
With its blend of engineering prowess and global technology partnerships,Ukay Aerodynamics is poised to revolutionise India’s UAV sector with help of Eric Freeman CEO of Alpha. The Alpha series exemplifies how homegrown innovation, coupled with international collaboration, can yield world-class defence solutions. As the company gears up for production, the skies over India may soon witness a new fleet of UAVs— bearing the stamp of Ukay. “Our goal is to democratise advanced UAV technology for national development,” says the Ukay’s Chairman.
