Pixxel to Manufacture Miniaturised Satellites for Indian Air Force Under iDEX Grant

Bengaluru-based space technology startup Pixxel has signed the 350th contract under the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) program to manufacture miniaturised multi-payload satellites for the Indian Air Force.

The contract, awarded as part of the iDEX Prime Space grant, marks a significant milestone in Pixxel's mission to revolutionise the space industry in India.

The contract was signed between Awais Ahmed, CEO of Pixxel, and Anurag Bajpai, Additional Secretary (Defence Production) and CEO of IDEX-DIO, in the presence of Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, the Vice Chiefs of the Armed Forces, and other officials of the Ministry of Defence.

"We are delighted to receive iDEX's grant and utilise our expertise of building microsatellites in-house to manufacture satellites externally for the first time," said Ahmed. "This recognition highlights Pixxel's dedication to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and innovation."

Under the multi-crore contract, Pixxel will develop small satellites weighing up to 150 kg for electro-optical, infrared, synthetic aperture radar, and hyperspectral applications. The company will leverage its indigenous hyperspectral satellite technology and manufacturing expertise to build these satellites, enabling ease of manufacture, low cost, and ease of launch.

As Pixxel sets out to launch six commercial-grade hyperspectral satellites, ‘Fireflies’, this year, the company remains committed to harnessing its indigenous expertise and the power of hyperspectral satellites for a sustainable future. Building on its expertise, Pixxel now offers high-performance, cost-effective satellite manufacturing solutions, empowering clients to drive meaningful change with space data.