India’s aerospace and defence sectors have long been reliant on imported propulsion systems, a gap that DheyaTech aims to fill. With a focus on building indigenous propulsion and hydrogen systems, the startup is working to enhance India’s self-reliance in these critical areas. This initiative is crucial for national security and innovation, particularly as the global shift towards cleaner energy accelerates.
### DheyaTech’s Vision and Progress
Founded in 2017 and operational since 2018, DheyaTech is spearheaded by Gurushankara K C, who has extensive experience in aero-engine design. Alongside co-founders Abhinav Alva and Chetan Kumar, the team is leveraging its background from companies like GE Aviation and Rolls-Royce to develop high-performance propulsion systems tailored to Indian needs.
DheyaTech focuses on creating micro gas turbines, turbojet engines, hydrogen compressors, and turbogenerators. These products are not just for defence but also for decentralised clean energy applications. This dual focus on defence and sustainability positions DheyaTech at a strategic intersection, aiming to reduce import dependence and foster innovation.
### Funding and Strategic Collaborations
DheyaTech’s journey is supported by significant funding and strategic partnerships. It received pre-seed funding of Rs 2.5 crore from iHub DivyaSampark in 2023, followed by Rs 10.5 crore from Unimech Aerospace in 2024. These funds have been instrumental in advancing product development and testing capabilities.
Collaborations with institutions like the Indian Institute of Science and DRDO’s Naval Materials Research Laboratory have further validated DheyaTech’s technology. The development of micro turbojet engines and hydrogen compressors marks significant milestones, indicating early success in a challenging sector.
### Implications for India’s Startup Ecosystem
DheyaTech represents a broader shift in India’s startup landscape, where more founders are venturing into deep-tech sectors. Unlike software startups, deep-tech companies face longer development timelines and higher costs. However, they build foundational capabilities crucial for national growth.
The success of DheyaTech could redefine self-reliance in modern engineering, reducing India’s dependence on imports in propulsion technology. By focusing on both defence and clean energy, DheyaTech is poised to contribute significantly to India’s strategic and sustainable development goals.
As DheyaTech continues to validate and deploy its products, it plans to expand its engine portfolio and scale hydrogen-based solutions. This trajectory not only supports India’s technological self-reliance but also positions DheyaTech as a potential leader in global propulsion and clean energy markets.
