Apollyon Dynamics Achieves Record-Breaking Drone Speed
Hyderabad-based defence technology startup Apollyon Dynamics has established a new benchmark in India’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) sector. Their electric interceptor drone, the Ahuti Mk II, attained a certified top speed of 498 km/h, setting the highest recorded speed for a multirotor UAV in South Asia according to publicly available data.
Startup Origins at BITS Pilani Hyderabad
Founded in 2025 by Jayant Khatri and Sourya Choudhary, Apollyon Dynamics began as part of the incubation program at the BITS Pilani Hyderabad campus. The company specializes in autonomous aerial systems designed specifically for deployment by the Indian armed forces, having already supplied UAV platforms to the Indian Army.
Engineering the Ahuti Mk II
The Ahuti Mk II drone, responsible for the speed record, was developed by engineers Aman Virani, Manas Vichare, and Ishaan Suri. This advanced model builds upon the original Ahuti prototype, which had reached speeds of approximately 300 km/h in 2025.
From Rs 2 Lakh Grant to Cutting-Edge UAVs
Jayant Khatri’s entrepreneurial journey was initially supported by a Rs 2 lakh SOLVE grant awarded during his time at BITS Pilani. This funding allowed the purchase of essential equipment such as a 3D printer and motors for an early prosthetics project, laying the groundwork for subsequent development of sophisticated UAV designs at Apollyon Dynamics.
Leadership Comments on the Achievement
“Achieving a certified top speed of 498 km/h shows that our engineering methods work well. It reflects the hard work of our entire team,” stated Jayant Khatri.
Sourya Choudhary remarked, “Moving from roughly 300 km/h with the first Ahuti in 2025 to 498 km/h with Ahuti Mk II in less than a year required extensive testing, modifications, and fine-tuning. This record underscores our team’s continuous commitment to developing a fast and reliable unmanned platform.”
Purpose and Future Plans
The Ahuti Mk II is designed to intercept hostile drones and loitering munitions at high speeds, enhancing defensive capabilities.
Looking ahead, Apollyon Dynamics aims to develop a Power Cruise Missile platform by 2030. This future platform is expected to integrate speed, autonomy, scalability, and cost-efficiency.
Academic and Entrepreneurial Support
Prof V. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice Chancellor of BITS Pilani, emphasized the significance of this achievement: “The success of Ahuti Mk II demonstrates how an academic and entrepreneurial environment can transform engineering concepts into practical defence solutions.”
For BITS Pilani, this milestone highlights the crucial role of its Technology Business Incubator in nurturing deeptech startups, aiding their growth from experimental projects in hostel rooms to nationally recognised accomplishments.
