Odisha-based startup recognised for redefining aerospace and defence manufacturing through indigenous innovation
BonV Aero Receives National Recognition for Indigenous Innovation
National: Odisha-based aerospace and defence startup BonV Aero has achieved a major national milestone by receiving the SIDM Champion Award (Special Jury) under Category 1 – Technology/Product Innovation to Address Defence Capabilities Gap. The award was presented by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh to Mr. Satyabrata Satapathy, Co-Founder and CEO of BonV Aero, who dedicated the honour to the Nation and the Armed Forces during his interaction with the Defence Minister.
Celebrating Excellence in Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
Instituted by the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), the Champion Awards celebrate innovation and excellence in indigenous defence manufacturing. BonV Aero’s recognition highlights its groundbreaking work in developing high-altitude, heavy-payload, and autonomous aerial systems designed and built entirely in India.
The company’s innovations—spanning indigenous propulsion systems, rugged airframes, and autonomous flight technologies—are redefining the capabilities of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). These systems enable tactical operations, rapid mobility, and mission autonomy even in high-threat, complex environments, strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence technology.
A Proud Moment for Odisha’s Deep-Tech Ecosystem
As the only startup from Odisha to be honoured with this national recognition, BonV Aero’s success shines a spotlight on the state’s growing deep-tech ecosystem. The company’s designs combine engineering precision with operational reliability, creating solutions that address both logistical and tactical needs of the Indian Armed Forces.
“This recognition from SIDM and the Ministry of Defence is a proud moment not just for BonV Aero, but for Odisha’s entire innovation community. It reaffirms our belief that India’s defence strength lies in indigenous innovation. Our systems are built for the Armed Forces—to perform where it matters most, from high-altitude frontiers to rapid-response tactical environments,” said Mr. Satyabrata Satapathy, Co-Founder & CEO, BonV Aero.
Esteemed Jury and Industry Validation
The Awards Jury was chaired by Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy, Former Chairman of DRDO and Scientific Adviser to the Raksha Mantri, and included eminent defence leaders such as Dr. Prahlada Ramarao (Padma Shri), Air Marshal Anil Chopra (Retd.), Vice Admiral S.K.N. Ghormade (Retd.), and Maj. Gen. P.K. Saini (Retd.), among others.
Endorsed by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, the SIDM Champion Awards continue to champion innovation, self-reliance, and collaboration between Indian industry and the Armed Forces—key pillars of the Government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Driving Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Aerospace and Defence
This recognition firmly positions BonV Aero as one of India’s leading deep-tech Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) driving Aatmanirbhar Bharat through indigenous innovation. With its continued focus on autonomous, high-performance aerial systems, BonV Aero is expanding India’s capabilities in aerospace and defence manufacturing—pioneering the next generation of aerial mobility and mission-ready technology.
