Whizz Aerospace Private Limited, an emerging Indian consumer drone brand, offers affordable, high-quality drones tailored for videography and photography enthusiasts. With a bold vision, the company aims to establish itself as the leading organization in India for the design, development, service, and support of commercial UAVs.
In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World, Aaliyan Khan, the Founder of Whizz Aerospace, reveals the cutting-edge drones his company is creating. He delves into the distinctive features that set them apart. Furthermore, he explores the vast market potential for drones in India and articulates his long-term vision for the industry. Below are the key takeaways from his thought-provoking conversation.
Q: Can you share details about the drones you are currently designing and explain how they stand out from other models available in the market?
A: We are building entirely indigenous drone solutions specifically designed for the Indian market. To date, we have developed all our electronics within India, unlike our competitors who rely on Chinese components, merely encasing them in frames and selling them to defense and other sectors. This reliance on foreign products poses a significant threat to our national security infrastructure. Such external components are a clear security risk. As proud Indians, we are also advancing Make in India products and conducting our research and development domestically. We believe that intellectual property (IP) should remain within India’s borders. Our vision is clear: to establish a globally recognized drone brand, proudly made in India.
Q: Can you elaborate on the unique features you are incorporating into your drones?
A: Our flagship product is the Nimbus micro-drone. It offers an impressive 45-minute flight time and features 360-degree obstacle sensors, ensuring that crashes are virtually impossible. With a transmission range of up to 20 kilometers, it provides reliable, long-distance capabilities. Our drones serve various purposes. The payload is customizable, allowing it to be used for a wide range of applications—whether it’s wedding photography, real estate shoots, infrastructure surveys, or even search and rescue operations with a thermal camera. One product, multiple solutions.
Q: What is the market potential for these types of drones in India?
A: The drone market is enormous, valued at approximately $1.5 billion and growing at an impressive rate of 23% annually. While the government has imposed a ban on the import of foreign drones, these products continue to circulate through back channels. Despite these challenges, the market is expanding rapidly, presenting a significant opportunity for those manufacturing drones domestically. Additionally, the government is actively supporting indigenous manufacturers with a range of incentive schemes, further fueling this growth.
Q: Have you launched your products in the market yet?
A: We are deeply invested in research and development, committed to creating the best possible product for our customers. We are taking the necessary time to perfect our drone, and we plan to launch it in India within the next six months.
Q: Which sectors are you specifically targeting?
A: Initially, we are targeting sectors that use small-category drones, such as wedding photographers and real estate professionals. Additionally, anyone operating on a smaller scale and in need of a drone solution is also a potential client for us.
Q: What is your long-term vision for these drones?
A: Our long-term vision is to establish a global brand, manufacturing our drones in India and supplying them to defense organizations worldwide, including our allies such as the US and Israel. Furthermore, we aim to empower small businesses, particularly in the photography and surveying sectors. Currently, around 500 drone surveying companies rely on Chinese drones. Our goal is to replace those with our domestically produced, high-quality drones.
