Indian drone startup Raphe mPhibr secures $100M amid booming military UAV demand
▼ Summary
– Raphe mPhibr raised $100 million in Series B funding to enhance R&D and local drone production amid rising military demand.
– Drones are increasingly used in global conflicts, prompting India to triple its drone spending to $470 million over the next 12–14 months.
– The startup offers nine drone models for military and surveillance use, serving Indian government agencies like the Army, Navy, and Border Security Force.
– Raphe mPhibr produces most components domestically, avoiding Chinese supply chains, and plans to manufacture radars and cameras in-house within 18 months.
– The company is expanding globally, partnering with firms like Hensoldt and Safran, and aims to go public within the next two to five years.
India’s defense technology sector is witnessing a major boost as homegrown drone manufacturer Raphe mPhibr secures $100 million in Series B funding. The investment, led by General Catalyst, will accelerate research and domestic production capabilities to meet the surging demand for military drones in border security and combat operations.
The global shift toward unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has intensified following recent conflicts, where drones have proven indispensable for reconnaissance and precision strikes. India’s own military engagements have highlighted this trend, prompting the government to allocate $470 million for drone procurement over the next year, a threefold increase from previous budgets. While China dominates the commercial drone market, Raphe mPhibr is positioning itself as a key player in India’s push for self-reliance in defense technology.
Founded in 2017 by brothers Vikash and Vivek Mishra, the Noida-based company has developed a diverse fleet of drones tailored for defense applications. Their portfolio includes the mR10 swarm system for coordinated missions, the mR20 for high-altitude supply drops, and the Bharat drone for rapid deployment in rugged terrain. These UAVs serve critical roles across India’s armed forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and specialized units like the Border Security Force.
The founders, both alumni of prestigious U.S. institutions, spent years studying military requirements before launching their first prototypes. What began in a modest 2,000-square-foot lab has now grown into a sprawling 650,000-square-foot manufacturing hub, thanks to recent funding. Unlike many competitors, Raphe mPhibr designs and produces nearly all components in-house, from flight controllers to composite materials, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
Advanced AI integration enhances their drones’ capabilities, enabling real-time object detection, adaptive frequency switching, and autonomous swarm coordination. Strategic partnerships with European defense giants like Hensoldt and Safran further bolster their technological edge, particularly in sensor development and simulation software.
With over 300 drones sold in the past year and consistent profitability, Raphe mPhibr is eyeing international expansion. The company has already showcased its technology at global defense expos and is in talks with multiple governments for export contracts. While specifics remain confidential, CEO Vivek Mishra confirmed plans to enter new markets soon.
The startup’s rapid growth, quadrupling revenue in four years, reflects India’s broader ambitions in defense innovation. With 600 employees and a clear roadmap toward an IPO, Raphe mPhibr is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of military drone technology.
(Source: TechCrunch)
