Top 10 Leading Aerospace Companies in India

The aerospace industry has rapidly evolved to become one of India’s most significant sectors in recent years. Fueled by innovative ideas, several startups have emerged with the aim of revolutionizing how satellites are launched, built, and utilized. Despite the stiff competition and high risks involved, many investors are still drawn to the potential of aerospace startups.

These startups are typically founded by visionary individuals aiming to bring cutting-edge technology to the industry, particularly focusing on reducing satellite costs and improving satellite deployment. Many successful aerospace startups in India were established by young entrepreneurs with fresh ideas that have been effectively implemented. Here’s a closer look at some of the most promising aerospace companies in India today.

1. Astrome

Founded in 2015 by Neha Satak and Prasad HL Bhat, Astrome is a Bengaluru-based aerospace startup focused on providing affordable, high-speed, and reliable internet through satellite technology. The company plans to launch 198 satellites into Low Earth Orbit, targeting densely populated regions such as Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America. Astrome’s goal is to make the internet more accessible across these regions.

2. Pixxel

Pixxel, launched in 2018 by Awais Ahmed and Kshitij Khandelwal, is one of India’s leading space startups, headquartered in Bengaluru. The company specializes in climate monitoring, crop yield forecasting, urban planning, and disaster management using satellite data. Pixxel plans to deploy a constellation of satellites that will help governments and businesses gather data for AI-driven analysis in various sectors such as agriculture, defense, and environmental monitoring. The startup has already secured $5 million in funding from investors like growX, Blume, and Lightspeed in preparation for its first satellite launch.

3. Agnikul Cosmos

Chennai-based Agnikul Cosmos was founded in 2017 by Srinath Ravichandran and Moin SPM. This aerospace startup is focused on developing low-cost launch systems for small satellites, making it easier for companies to access space. Notably, Agnikul Cosmos uses 3D printing technology to manufacture rocket engines in a single piece. The company is currently developing a lightweight rocket capable of carrying up to 200 kilograms. It has also raised 23.4 crores through Series A funding.

4. Skyroot

Founded in 2018 by former ISRO scientists Pawan Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, Skyroot is one of India’s most promising private aerospace companies. Based in Hyderabad, Skyroot’s primary focus is on building rockets, and it’s the first privately-held Indian company to develop a homegrown rocket engine. The company has already introduced a series of products, including Vikram I, II, and III, with the goal of creating India’s first privately-funded rockets. Skyroot has secured $4.3 million in investment.

5. Kawa Space

Founded in 2019 by Kris Nair and Bala Menon, Kawa Space is an emerging aerospace startup based in Mumbai. The company specializes in building satellites for Earth observation and provides space infrastructure services to clients in sectors like government, finance, and agriculture. Kawa Space’s offerings are designed to help organizations with tactical risk assessment and other operational needs. Among its investors is Vijay Shekhar Sharma, the founder of Paytm.

6. XOVIAN

Established in 2011 by Raghav Sharma and Ankit Bhateja, XOVIAN is an Indian aerospace company headquartered in New Delhi. The company focuses on providing affordable, sustainable satellite solutions, and is a founding member of the World Federation of Aerospace Industries. In 2014, XOVIAN launched its first product, CANSAT, a satellite project designed for educational purposes. The company is currently involved in producing satellite components and promoting research-driven programs that bridge the gap between academia and industry.

7. Bellatrix Aerospace

Bellatrix Aerospace, co-founded by Rohan M. Ganapathy and Yashas Karanam in 2015, is based in Coimbatore and is recognized for its work in developing electric propulsion systems for satellites. The company aims to significantly lower the cost of satellite launches through its innovative propulsion technology. Bellatrix is currently developing a reusable rocket called “Chetak,” made from advanced materials like carbon composite. Notably, Chetak will be powered by a methane-liquid oxygen engine. Bellatrix has also introduced a Microwave Electrothermal Thruster (MET) for electric satellite propulsion.

8. Earth2Orbit

Founded by Sushmita Mohanty in 2007, Earth2Orbit was one of the first private space companies in India. The company provides launch advisory services, helping other organizations navigate the complexities of space launches. Earth2Orbit has established operations in major Indian cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Trivandrum, and maintains international offices as well.

9. Dhruva Space

Founded in 2012 by Abhishek Raju, Sanjay Nekkanti, and Narayan Prasad, Dhruva Space is based in Bengaluru and focuses on building a commercial spacecraft manufacturing sector in India. Dhruva Space has partnered with ISRO to develop a follow-up to the HAMSAT-1 satellite, which was launched in 2005. The company aims to provide solutions in areas like disaster management, emergency communication, and education.

10. Exseed Space

Exseed Space was founded in 2017 by Kris Nair with the goal of becoming a leading manufacturer of spacecraft. The company uses advanced technology to build cost-effective satellites and was the first Indian aerospace startup chosen by ISRO to build large satellites for the Indian Space Program. Exseed Space has been awarded a contract to manufacture 9–15 satellites weighing up to 4,000 kilograms each.

Conclusion

India’s aerospace sector has seen remarkable growth, with numerous startups contributing innovative solutions to the industry. These companies provide a range of services, from satellite manufacturing to launch services, and their work is crucial to the development of both the aerospace and defense sectors.

With continued government support and infrastructure development, India’s aerospace industry is poised for further expansion in the coming years. This presents opportunities for both domestic and international companies to thrive in this rapidly growing sector. The startups mentioned above are among the best, playing a key role in advancing India’s aerospace capabilities.