Zebu Secures $1 Million to Enhance Defense Technology

Defense-tech startup Zebu has successfully secured $1 million in a pre-Series A financing round led by Bluehill VC. This funding will be pivotal in advancing four essential drones from prototype to operational status, thereby contributing to India’s defense modernization and bolstering local military capabilities, as stated by Zebu in an official release.

Founded in 2021 by Santosh Balajee Banisetty, Zebu is dedicated to developing mission-ready counter-drone systems for armed forces worldwide. The startup has created four innovative products for the Indian armed forces, which include a hostile drone-neutralising IAF Net Drone equipped with a six-cartridge system, a sea-surface combat and rescue drone for the Indian Coast Guard, a swarm-enabled offensive combat drone for the IAF, and a tethered surveillance drone intended for Army border patrols.

Market research indicates that the global counter-drone market is poised to reach $11 billion by 2030.

The Hyderabad-based firm highlighted that the IAF Net Capture Drone—referred to as a sky sentinel capable of ensnaring hostile drones mid-air like a futuristic spiderweb—has made significant progress from its initial skeletal model. Over the last six months, it has advanced to radar integration and is nearing key military-grade certification milestones. Furthermore, Zebu is reportedly in discussions with a leading defense manufacturer to supply its drones.

Upcoming Innovations in Defense Technology

Zebu is also developing an Anti-Drone Swarm System for the Air Force, which features rapid-fire pneumatic launchers and is set for operational readiness by late 2025. This system aims to overpower enemy drones through coordinated attacks. Additionally, the Army’s 24×7 “Eye in the Sky,” known as the Tethered Surveillance Drone, could see widespread deployment by mid-2025, providing continuous border surveillance and has garnered approval from various regiments.

Expansion into Commercial Markets

In addition to government contracts, Zebu is branching out into commercial markets by adapting its military-grade technology for enterprise applications. The startup reports that its proprietary Ground Control Station (GCS) is attracting significant interest from private original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) across India, the U.S., and Southeast Asia.