Indian Navy signs ₹66 Crore deal with Odisha-based deep-tech startup Coratia Technologies to deploy underwater remotely operated vehicles

The Indian Navy has signed a ₹66 crore contract with Odisha-based Coratia Technologies for the supply of indigenously developed Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (UWROVs) and an Autonomous Surface Vehicle (ASV). 

The systems are designed for sonar mapping and AI-driven analytics, aimed at strengthening underwater surveillance and reducing dependence on imports.

₹66 Cr Deal between Indian Navy & Coratia Technologies

Under the agreement, Coratia will deliver three platforms — Jalasimha, Jaladuta and Navya (ASV) — capable of seabed mapping and real-time data processing. 

The deal, signed in the presence of senior Indian Navy officials, marks the first large-scale induction of India-built UWROVs into active naval operations.

“This is not only a recognition of our capability to design and manufacture mission-critical underwater systems but also symbolises the Navy’s efforts to strengthen India’s research and innovation ecosystem through initiatives like iDEX,” said Coratia CEO and co-founder Debendra Pradhan.

CTO and co-founder Biswajit Swain added, “Induction of indigenous UWROVs not only reduces costs and reliance on foreign suppliers but also combats trade restrictions and tariff uncertainties.”

Investors have also expressed confidence in the company’s role in India’s defence-tech sector. 

“By investing, we are not just backing a promising startup but also reinforcing the spirit of ‘Make in India’ and contributing to the vision of becoming a global technology leader,”said Raj Sethia, Founder and Managing Partner of MGF Kavachh.

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Coratia’s UWROVs

Beyond naval use, Coratia has built its UWROVs with a frugal design approach, offering cost-efficient and dual-use capabilities.

The startup already counts SAIL, Indian Oil, Indian Railways and Tata Steel among its clients. Its underwater robots are deployed for dam and bridge inspections, offshore energy asset monitoring, subsea pipeline checks, marine ecosystem studies and disaster response.

The global underwater robotics market, valued at $5.08 billion in 2025, is projected to reach $9.53 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 13.39%, according to Mordor Intelligence — a trend that highlights Coratia’s growing relevance.

In July 2025, the odisha-based startup raised ₹17.4 crore in a Pre-Series A round led by MGF Kavachh and supported by Pontaq Ventures India. The funding will help expand R&D, strengthen IPR and explore exports to tap into rising global demand.

The deal with Coratia is part of the Indian Navy’s broader effort to bring startups into the defence innovation space. For the company, it marks its first major defence contract. 

For the Navy, it provides access to cost-efficient, homegrown underwater robotics at a time when maritime technology is becoming increasingly critical.

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