Introduction:
In a significant display of homegrown innovation, Coimbatore-based startup Biggen Technologies (BGT) made waves at the recent Defense Expo 2024 held at CODISSIA, Coimbatore. The two-day event saw BGT unveiling its cutting-edge Chakra UAV helicopters, showcasing the company’s prowess in unmanned aerial vehicle technology and its potential applications in both defense and civilian sectors.
The expo, which concluded on Wednesday, drew large crowds, including industry professionals, defense personnel, and curious students. Biggen Technologies’ stand became a focal point of attention, with their array of engine-powered, electric transmission, and multi-payload helicopter models capturing the imagination of attendees and highlighting the growing capabilities of Tamil Nadu’s startup ecosystem in advanced technology sectors.
Biggen Technologies, a dynamic startup specializing in unmanned helicopters, drones, and automation, demonstrated an impressive range of UAV helicopters during the expo. The company’s director, Adarsh, led a two-hour demonstration that showcased the operational capabilities of the Chakra UAV helicopters, leaving spectators, especially children, captivated by the performance.
The star of the show was the Chakra UAV helicopter lineup, which includes several variants designed for different applications. The Chakra version 1.0, a battery-powered model, can carry 4 kg of cargo for 45 minutes at a speed of 60 km/h. An upgraded variant of version 1.0 boasts an impressive 10 kg lift capacity and can fly for 90 minutes. The petrol-powered Chakra version 2.0 can lift 6 kg and cover 60 km in 40 minutes. Perhaps most impressive is the newly developed petrol-powered helicopter, capable of lifting 10 kg and flying for 120 minutes at 60 km/h.
These specifications underscore the versatility and potential of Biggen Technologies’ UAV helicopters in various applications, from emergency medical supply deliveries to logistical support in difficult terrain. Adarsh highlighted the significance of these helicopters in government operations and crisis situations, stating, “These UAV helicopters are essential in logistics, especially for transporting medicines during crises like the COVID-19 outbreak. They are also being used in various hilly states, including Manipur and Nagaland, flying at altitudes of 3000 to 4000 meters with GPS monitoring for precise tracking.”
The expo also served as a platform for Biggen Technologies to announce their plans to enter the logistics market, targeting both e-commerce and defense sectors. This move signals the company’s ambition to expand its reach and leverage its technology for broader commercial applications. “We received a strong response from the defence sector, which provided us with several requirements that we have already begun addressing,” Adarsh noted, hinting at potential collaborations and contracts in the pipeline.
Biggen Technologies’ client list is already impressive, including prestigious organizations such as the Indian Council of Medical Research, the Defense Research and Development Organization, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, the Parachute Regiment, NAL Lab, the Indian Institute of Science, and IITs in Jodhpur and Kanpur. This diverse clientele underscores the versatility and reliability of BGT’s UAV technology across various sectors.
Looking to the future, Biggen Technologies is not resting on its laurels. The company is developing advanced models capable of carrying up to 100 kg and has received approval to develop a two-person UAV helicopter. Adarsh emphasized the potential impact of these developments, stating, “These helicopters could revolutionize emergency medical transport, particularly in reaching remote and flood-prone areas.”
Key Statistics and Data Points:
- Chakra version 1.0: 4 kg payload, 45-minute flight time, 60 km/h speed
- Upgraded Chakra version 1.0: 10 kg payload, 90-minute flight time
- Chakra version 2.0 (petrol-powered): 6 kg payload, 60 km range, 40-minute flight time
- New petrol-powered model: 10 kg payload, 120-minute flight time, 60 km/h speed
- Operational altitude: 3000 to 4000 meters in hilly states
Implications for the Tamil Nadu Startup Ecosystem:
Biggen Technologies’ success and the positive reception at the Defense Expo 2024 highlight the growing capabilities of Tamil Nadu’s startup ecosystem, particularly in high-tech sectors like aerospace and defense. The company’s achievements demonstrate that local startups can compete on a national level, attracting clients from prestigious government organizations and research institutions.
This showcase of innovation could potentially attract more investment and support for the state’s startup ecosystem, particularly in deep-tech sectors. It also positions Tamil Nadu as a hub for defense and aerospace innovation, which could lead to increased collaboration between startups, established companies, and government agencies in these fields.
Furthermore, Biggen Technologies’ focus on practical applications of its technology, such as emergency medical transport and logistics in difficult terrain, showcases how startups can address real-world challenges while driving technological advancement. This approach could inspire other startups in the region to focus on developing solutions with tangible societal impact.
Conclusion:
Biggen Technologies’ impressive showcase at the Coimbatore Defense Expo 2024 marks a significant milestone for both the company and the Tamil Nadu startup ecosystem. By demonstrating advanced UAV helicopter technology with applications in defense, logistics, and emergency services, BGT has positioned itself as a leader in the field and a shining example of the innovation emerging from the region. As the company continues to develop more advanced models and expand into new markets, it is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of unmanned aerial logistics and emergency response systems, while also inspiring the next generation of tech entrepreneurs in Tamil Nadu.
