Gurugram-based Casey Aviation Secures TDB Grant to Build Hybrid Propulsion Test Facility in North India

The Technology Development Board (TDB), Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, has signed an agreement with Casey Aviation Pvt Ltd, Gurugram, for the project titled “Boost Electric Jump Take-Off (BE-JTO).” The conditional grant is sanctioned under the India–UK Collaborative R&D Programme for Industrial Sustainability, in partnership with UK-based ARC Aerosystems Ltd.

Key Highlights

• Project Title: Boost Electric Jump Take-Off (BE-JTO)
• Partners: TDB, Casey Aviation Pvt Ltd (India), ARC Aerosystems Ltd (UK)
• Funding: Conditional grant under India–UK Collaborative R&D Programme

Objectives

• Develop advanced hybrid propulsion-based Jump Take-Off (JTO) systems
• Enhance operational capabilities of unmanned and light aircraft
• Establish a dedicated test bench facility for rotorcraft propulsion systems

Applications

• Regional connectivity in remote areas
• Disaster response and medical evacuation
• Unmanned logistics and surveillance operations

Strategic Importance

• First hybrid propulsion testing facility in North India
• Supports startups and developers in aerial mobility systems
• Facilitates commercialization of hybrid propulsion solutions

Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary, TDB: Collaborative R&D initiatives under international programmes advance cutting-edge technologies in strategic sectors.

Casey Aviation Promoters, said, the project will validate technology in real-world conditions and accelerate scalable propulsion solutions.

The BE-JTO project marks a milestone in India’s aerospace innovation, combining hybrid propulsion, international collaboration, and ecosystem development to advance unmanned and regional air mobility.

About Casey Aviation Pvt Ltd

• Founded: Newly established aerospace venture based in Gurugram
• Founders: Pawan Kakkar and Air Marshal GS Bedi (Retd)
• Focus: Designing and developing small aircraft and specialized aviation solutions
• Expertise: Brings together industry, academia, and research institutions
• Notable Project: DevDoot Hybrid Air Ambulance – gyrocopter platform for emergency medical logistics
• Vision: To make regional and personal aviation accessible, eco‑friendly, and mission‑ready

Broader Impact

• Infrastructure Creation: Establishment of one of North India’s first propulsion testing facilities
• Innovation Boost: Strengthens India’s role in next‑generation aerial mobility and unmanned systems
• Ecosystem Benefits: Provides validated testing infrastructure for startups and developers
• Sustainability: Aligns with India–UK push for net‑zero aviation technologies