Indian Navy to Induct Indigenous Underwater Robots from Odisha Startup Coratia Technologies

In a major boost to India’s defence indigenisation efforts, the Indian Navy has signed a ₹66 crore (approx. USD 7.5 million) contract with Odisha-based deep-tech robotics startup Coratia Technologies for the supply of Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (UWROVs). This landmark deal marks the first large-scale induction of India-built underwater robotic systems into active naval operations, strengthening the country’s push for technological self-reliance in critical defence applications. Coratia Technologies announced that the agreement was signed in the presence of senior Navy officials and represents a significant leap forward in underwater robotics. The company highlighted that its frugal yet advanced design delivers cutting-edge capabilities at a fraction of global costs, making it a cost-efficient breakthrough in India’s underwater defence technology. The induction not only reduces dependence on foreign suppliers but also shields the Navy from trade restrictions and tariff uncertainties, while opening avenues to expand India’s blue economy. The UWROVs developed by Coratia are designed for a wide range of missions. Beyond naval reconnaissance, these robots can perform dam and bridge inspections, ocean floor mapping, marine ecosystem monitoring, and inspection of offshore energy assets, pipelines, and subsea cables. They are equally critical in disaster response, water quality monitoring, and environmental protection, showcasing their dual-use potential for both defence and civilian applications. Coratia’s portfolio includes Jalasimha and Jaladuta, two advanced underwater robots, and Navya, an autonomous surface vehicle (ASV). These systems leverage sonar-based mapping and real-time AI/ML-powered data analytics, enabling precise underwater navigation, surveillance, and mission execution. Such indigenous technologies represent a key step in reducing India’s reliance on expensive imports, while creating opportunities for export to global markets. The company recently raised ₹17.4 crore (USD 2 million) to expand its R&D initiatives, strengthen intellectual property rights, and meet rising international demand for underwater robotics. Co-Founder and CEO Debendra Pradhan described the Navy’s adoption of Coratia’s systems as a validation of India’s growing defence innovation ecosystem, nurtured through initiatives like the Ministry of Defence’s Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX). Launched in 2018, iDEX provides funding and mentorship to startups, MSMEs, and research institutes to develop breakthrough technologies for the armed forces. Co-Founder and CTO Biswajit Swain added that the induction of Coratia’s UWROVs represents not just a strategic capability upgrade for the Navy, but also a step toward unlocking new possibilities in underwater exploration and sustainable marine infrastructure. This collaboration demonstrates how startups are emerging as key players in India’s defence modernisation, delivering mission-critical innovations that support both national security and economic growth. With Coratia’s cost-efficient underwater vehicles entering naval service, India takes a significant stride toward strengthening its maritime capabilities while contributing to the global underwater robotics market.