LAT Aerospace, backed by Zomato co-founder Deepinder Goyal, has acquired Gurugram-based defence robotics startup Sharang Shakti, marking its first takeover as the company broadens from regional air mobility into defence and autonomous systems. The move aims to deepen in-house capabilities in sensing, autonomy and guidance technologies crucial for next-generation aviation platforms.
Acquisition signals strategic shift
Launched initially to develop hybrid-electric short take-off and landing (STOL) aircraft for Tier‑2 and Tier‑3 connectivity, LAT Aerospace is now expanding its focus beyond regional aviation. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the acquisition is viewed as a step toward building an integrated aerospace and defence technology platform with strong indigenous IP.
What Sharang Shakti brings
Founded in 2023, Sharang Shakti has been developing anti‑drone systems, aerial threat mitigation solutions and autonomous robotics. These capabilities address rising requirements for drone detection, interception and persistent aerial surveillance across commercial, industrial and defence applications.
By integrating Sharang Shakti’s technologies, LAT Aerospace is expected to bolster competencies in sensors, navigation controls, autonomy and advanced guidance—core elements for both crewed STOL aircraft and unmanned systems.
Context: indigenous defence and aerospace push
India has been actively promoting self‑reliance in defence manufacturing and aerospace through policy reforms and incentives that encourage private-sector participation in deep tech. Startups working on robotics, autonomy and drones have benefited from increased access to funding, testing facilities and government procurement opportunities.
Sharang Shakti’s focus on drone detection and interceptor technologies aligns with national priorities for aerial security and surveillance. Combining civil and military use cases—so‑called dual‑use technologies—could help LAT Aerospace address a wider range of market needs while reducing dependence on external suppliers.
Implications for product development and the startup ecosystem
Consolidating talent and intellectual property can shorten development cycles and improve innovation outcomes, industry experts say. Embedding advanced robotics and surveillance capabilities directly into aircraft programs may enable LAT Aerospace to pursue unmanned systems and next‑generation aerial platforms alongside its regional mobility offerings.
Deepinder Goyal’s involvement provides both capital and operational credibility. His experience scaling technology businesses suggests LAT Aerospace is positioning for sustained, long‑term growth within India’s deep‑tech ecosystem rather than a short‑term exit play.
Broader sectoral impact
The acquisition reflects a broader trend of collaboration and consolidation in India’s high‑tech startup landscape, where complementary capabilities are being merged to build comprehensive solutions. LAT Aerospace’s move may prompt similar strategic partnerships across aerospace, robotics and defence tech, potentially accelerating technological progress and intensifying competition in advanced manufacturing and aviation.
