Indian private firm develops low-cost missile to tackle drone threats

Indian defence technology firm IG Defence is developing Jwala, a cost-effective short-range surface-to-air missile designed to destroy hostile unmanned aerial vehicles. An Odisha-based start-up first showcased Jwala at the North Tech Symposium in Prayagraj in May 2026. On October 3, 2026, the company successfully test-fired two solid rocket motors, marking a key step in integrating the propulsion system. Jwala uses a solid-fuel dual-pulse rocket motor to give rapid acceleration at launch and extra speed during the final attack phase. The missile has an engagement range of two to five kilometres and an altitude envelope from 50 metres to 5,000 metres. IG Defence plans to integrate Jwala with its GRID battle-management architecture to connect sensors, threat assessment and defensive effectors.

Market Context

India's defence production reached a record ₹1.78 lakh crore in fiscal year 2025-26, with private companies contributing about ₹42,000 crore, or 24% of the total. Defence exports also reached ₹38,424 crore during the year. In March 2026, the Defence Ministry highlighted the important role of start-ups and small businesses in developing local defence technologies. Data from MarketsandMarkets in August 2026 showed India's counter-UAS market was valued at $315 million in 2025 and is projected to reach about $1.09 billion by 2030, growing at an annual rate of 28.2%. Other private firms like Solar Industries India, Adani Defence & Aerospace, NIBE Group, L&T, and Paras Defence and Space Technologies are also active in the missile and defence sector.

Context

Modern military conflicts increasingly feature inexpensive drones that cost a fraction of the traditional, expensive missiles typically used to shoot them down. Developing affordable interceptors helps militaries protect critical infrastructure and troops without exhausting their financial resources on routine engagements.