New Delhi – The Ministry of Defence has reached a significant milestone by signing its 350th iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) contract with SpacePixxel Technologies Pvt Ltd. This contract focuses on designing and developing a miniature observation and imaging satellite for the Indian Air Force (IAF), aiming to revolutionize space electronics by miniaturizing payloads traditionally used on larger satellites.

Advancements in Miniaturized Satellites
The new miniature satellite will be capable of carrying a variety of advanced payloads, including electro-optical, infrared, synthetic aperture radar, and hyperspectral sensors, all weighing up to 150 kg. This innovation in space electronics allows for faster, more economical deployment, easier manufacturing, scalability, adaptability, and a reduced environmental impact. "This 350th iDEX contract enables innovation in space electronics, wherein many payloads earlier deployed on dedicated large satellites are now being miniaturized," said a Ministry of Defence official.

SpacePixxel’s Role and Vision
SpacePixxel has been at the forefront of developing high-resolution hyperspectral imaging satellites for detailed earth observation. The contract was signed by Anurag Bajpai, Additional Secretary (Defence Production) & CEO of the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), and Awais Ahmed Nadeem Alduri, Founder and CEO of SpacePixxel Technologies.

Rapid Progress in Defence Innovation
This achievement comes just 18 months after the Ministry signed its 150th iDEX contract in December 2022. Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane praised the new defence innovators for their dedication to advancing technology and ensuring national security. "The unwavering commitment of new defence innovators is pushing the boundaries of technology and safeguarding the nation. We assure them of all possible support," he said.

Promoting Defence Technology Innovations
The iDEX initiative, established by the DIO under the Department of Defence Production, has launched 11 editions of the Defence India Start-up Challenge and recently introduced the Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme to further promote innovations in critical and strategic defence technologies. So far, the procurement of 35 items worth over Rs. 2,000 crore has been approved. iDEX, which received the Prime Minister Award for Public Policy in Innovation Category in 2021, is currently engaged with over 400 start-ups and MSMEs.

iDEX is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Defence to foster innovation and technology development in defence and aerospace. It aims to engage industries, including MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, R&D institutes, and academia, to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in these fields. Since its inception, iDEX has significantly contributed to the advancement of defence technology in India, promoting a collaborative approach between the government and private sectors.

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