Science & Tech 05 November 2026
IZI Enterprise Wins DRDO Contract for Indigenous 'VANA' Multi-Mission Surveillance UAV Platform
Why in the News?
Bhopal-based deep-tech drone company **IZI Enterprise** secured a contract from the **Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE)**, a specialized laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (**DRDO**), for the supply and deployment of its indigenous **VANA Surveillance Drone** platform.
Key Features / Major Points:
- Deployment Scope & Mission Profiles:
- The VANA UAV platform will be deployed as an Aerial Photogrammetry Platform for precision mapping, terrain feature collection, aerial surveillance, and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) imaging.
- Provides real-time aerial video transmission and mission data logging to assist defense evaluators at PXE.
- Technological Specifications:
- Equipped with high-resolution imaging, RGB and EO/IR sensors, **GNSS-based precision navigation**, and a dedicated Ground Control Station (GCS).
- Supports automated mission planning, geofencing, camera controls, and autonomous waypoint navigation.
- Operational Support:
- Includes deployment of two **DGCA-certified pilots** by IZI during the first year of operation to facilitate flight management and skill transfer to defense personnel.
- Leadership:
- Founder of IZI Enterprise: **Ishan Haydn**.
---
Static GK Facts:
- Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE):
- Established: **1895** | Location: **Chandipur, Balasore (Odisha)**.
- Specialized DRDO establishment responsible for testing and evaluation of guns, artillery systems, ammunition, and military hardware.
- Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO):
- Established: **1958** | Headquarters: **New Delhi** | Nodal Ministry: **Ministry of Defence**.
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Q: Which indigenous UAV platform was recently contracted by DRDO's PXE for surveillance and aerial photogrammetry?
A: VANA Surveillance Drone (by IZI Enterprise)
Q: Where is DRDO’s Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE) located?
A: Chandipur, Balasore (Odisha)
Q: Where is the deep-tech UAV manufacturing company IZI Enterprise headquartered?
A: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
#DRDO #PXEChandipur #IZIEnterprise #VANADrone #MakeInIndia #DefenceCurrentAffairs #UAVTechnology #StaticGK