Tanmay Bunkar (Vayudh): 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Tanmay Bunkar, a prominent figure in the Indian defence technology sector, is the CEO and co-founder of Vayudh, a defence-focused drone technology company. Founded in 2016, Vayudh has made significant advancements in drone technology, particularly in swarm drone and nano-class UAVs, positioning India on the global map for cutting-edge defence innovations. As of 2025, under Bunkar's leadership, Vayudh has secured substantial funding, underscoring its potential and ambition within this rapidly evolving field.

1. Early Endeavors

Tanmay Bunkar, along with his colleagues Anuj Barnwal and Sarita Ahlawat, pioneered Vayudh as a subsidiary of BotLab Dynamics Private Limited. The startup incubated at IIT Delhi focuses on developing drones for military applications, including battlefield intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). Bunkar’s technical acumen and leadership have been crucial in propelling Vayudh's rise in the defence sector.

2. Innovation in Drone Technology

Vayudh is known for its innovative approach to drone technology. The company specializes in swarm drone technology, where it has logged over 300,000 autonomous flying hours. This is particularly noteworthy in defence operations, as swarm drones can execute complex missions, offering redundancy and enhanced capability over traditional drones.

3. Indigenous Nano Drone Development

In a significant milestone, Vayudh developed India's first nano-class drone, Atri. This small and agile UAV is tailored for precision ISR operations in high-risk environments, showcasing Bunkar’s vision of creating globally competitive, indigenous defence technology.

4. Recent Funding Boost

In April 2025, Vayudh raised $10 million in funding in a round led by Dharana Capital, with participation from notable investors like Deepinder Goyal and Ajay Aggarwal. This investment will advance R&D, scale manufacturing, and accelerate deployment of Vayudh's cutting-edge drone systems, solidifying its footing in India's strategic tech landscape.

5. Impact on Defence Sector

Vayudh's drones have been integrated into India's defence forces, enhancing military capabilities in surveillance and reconnaissance. This also aligns with India’s push for indigenous defence technology, reducing reliance on foreign systems and fostering self-reliance.

6. Recognition and Grants

The company’s efforts have not gone unnoticed; in 2023, Vayudh was awarded the iDEX grant to develop India's smallest surveillance drone. This grant is part of the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative, aimed at promoting technological innovation within India's defence industry.

7. Commercial Applications

Beyond military applications, Vayudh’s drone technology has found commercial use in industrial surveying and drone shows, evidencing the versatility and broad applicability of their innovations. These commercial deployments highlight Vayudh's strategic balance between defence and civil sectors.

8. Challenges and Competition

Operating in a competitive environment, Vayudh faces challenges from other drone technology firms both in India and globally. Yet, its emphasis on indigenous technology and strong backing from investors helps maintain its competitive edge.

9. The Vision for Future

Looking ahead, Tanmay Bunkar envisions expanding Vayudh's capabilities further to meet the growing demands of modern warfare and national security. Investment in R&D and scaling manufacturing operations are at the forefront of this vision, aiming to cement Vayudh’s position as a leader in drone technology.

10. Influence and Leadership

Bunkar's leadership at Vayudh reflects a broader ambition to transform India's technological landscape. His work in nurturing start-ups and driving innovation in defence technology sets a precedent for future entrepreneurs in the sector.

Conclusion

Tanmay Bunkar’s journey with Vayudh underscores a narrative of innovation, strategic foresight, and dedication to national advancement. By pioneering drone technology that blends military precision with commercial adaptability, Vayudh under Bunkar’s leadership is set to redefine industry standards. This trajectory not only marks a significant contribution to India's defence capabilities but also inspires a new era of technological self-reliance and innovation.