Defence tech startup Armory, founded by Amardeep Singh, has secured a landmark ₹100 crore order from the Defence Ministry to produce and deploy its AI-powered counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS), SURGE. This breakthrough contract positions Armory as one of the youngest defence tech startups to achieve such scale in such a short time.
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The SURGE platform is powered by Armory’s proprietary Samaritan OS, which scans environments millions of times per second using AI. It detects, tracks, and neutralises rogue drones by learning new radio frequency (RF) signatures and updating its threat library in real time. Designed with continuous inputs from defence users, SURGE is tailored to India’s specific operating conditions rather than being a generic solution.
With this order, Armory plans to scale manufacturing capacity, expand its R&D center in Manesar, and strengthen its product portfolio. The company will also invest in hiring top talent across radar, AI/ML, mechanical, DSP, and electronics engineering to accelerate innovation.
Founded in 2024, Armory has already raised ₹35 crore in equity funding, including a ₹13 crore round in June 2025. Its backers include growX, Antler, Industrial47, Dexter Ventures, AC Ventures, 8x, and Galiakotwala Engineering. The startup now plans to raise another round later this year to fuel hardware development and broader expansion.
The timing of Armory’s success aligns with India’s growing push for indigenous defence technology. The country’s defence budget rose 15.2% YoY to ₹7.85 lakh crore in FY27, and initiatives like the proposed ₹300 crore Centre of Excellence (CoE) for AI-powered defence systems highlight the government’s commitment to strengthening surveillance, reconnaissance, and decision-support capabilities.
Armory’s founder Amardeep Singh, who earlier helped build indigenous drones at ideaForge, has long warned of the dangers posed by rogue drones. With over 400 reported incursions last year alone, drones carrying drugs, arms, and explosives have become a persistent threat at India’s borders. Armory’s mission is to deliver counter-drone systems faster than bureaucracy allows, bringing private-sector speed to public-sector defence challenges.
The company’s philosophy is rooted in speed and innovation. Products like SURGE went from design to deployment in just six months, underscoring Armory’s ability to execute rapidly. Singh emphasizes that Armory is not just building technology but creating a championship team where every member is a driver, not a passenger.
As drones become cheaper, smarter, and more destructive, Armory’s work represents a critical step in safeguarding India’s skies. With strong government backing, investor confidence, and a clear vision, Armory is positioning itself as a new-age full-stack defence prime, ready to defend against modern threats.
