"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
15 May 2025
At a time when India’s border tensions are running high, Paras Defence & Space Technologies has quietly taken a game-changing step that could shift the dynamics of national security. Teaming up with Israel’s HevenDrones, Paras has launched a joint venture to create India’s first hydrogen-powered surveillance drones.
But these aren’t just flashy new gadgets, they’re practical, battle-tested machines that have proven their worth in volatile zones. With the ability to fly five times longer than traditional systems and operate with near silence, these hydrogen drones bring round-the-clock vigilance to border zones that were previously hard to monitor effectively.
Closing Gaps, Opening Eyes: Surveillance Reimagined
India’s long-standing Achilles’ heel in security operations — the lack of persistent aerial visibility — is finally being addressed. The drones, which come equipped with thermal imaging, stabilised optical sensors, and wide-area coverage, have the precision and patience that human patrols and older tech simply can’t match.
Imagine a drone hovering 500 metres above the earth, silently scanning terrain across day and night, rain or fog, picking up every threat, that’s the level of alertness Paras is bringing to the table. And now, thanks to this drone, such surveillance isn’t a distant dream, it’s a near-future reality.
Once known for building sub-systems like optics and optronic units, Paras is now stepping into the role of a full-fledged systems integrator. By aligning with the Make in India initiative, the JV will establish a manufacturing base right here on home soil and deployments are expected to begin shortly.
Financially, the company is on solid ground, with a 97% surge in Q4 profits and a consistent 50% annual growth rate, Paras is pumping capital into expanding R&D and scaling up its UAV capabilities. The company isn’t just ready for battlefield dominance, it’s also preparing to welcome more investors into its rapidly rising defence journey.
Leap into India’s Security Future
Though built for war, the hydrogen drone technology isn’t chained to combat. Its dual-use design means it’s equally suited for civilian applications, watching over remote villages or assisting in disaster relief. Paras isn’t ignoring its space ambitions either. The company’s expertise in hyperspectral imaging developed in collaboration with ISRO and DRDO is being geared for satellite deployments.
So while the drones prepare to guard borders, the company’s space wing quietly strengthens India’s skyward gaze. As Paras transitions from a component player to a strategic national asset, one thing is clear: India's defence future is no longer on the drawing board, it’s airborne, it’s hydrogen-powered, and it’s already here.