In a significant development for the global drone industry, Drone Destination, one of India’s premier drone technology and training firms, has unveiled plans to set up its European subsidiary in Cyprus. This major announcement coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent diplomatic visit to the Republic of Cyprus, underscoring India’s expanding footprint in the global drone ecosystem.
The new Cyprus-based entity will concentrate on establishing a comprehensive drone ecosystem encompassing drone design, operational services, pilot training, and drone sports. This initiative promises to serve not only the European market but also aims to reach into the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The timing of this initiative aligns seamlessly with India’s national ambition to become a global leader in drone technology by the year 2030.
Manish Kumar, India’s High Commissioner to Cyprus, expressed his support for the initiative, stating, “We welcome Indian companies like Drone Destination to invest in Cyprus, particularly in future-ready sectors such as drone technology and artificial intelligence.” He noted that this investment complements Prime Minister Modi’s vision of positioning India as a pivotal player in the global drone industry, with Cyprus emerging as a strategic entry point for innovations into Europe.
Marios Tannousis, CEO of Invest Cyprus, highlighted the multifaceted benefits of this venture for Cyprus, asserting that it would not only bolster the island’s economy but also elevate its status as a reliable center for global innovation. He elaborated on the transformative potential of drone technology across various fields, including defense, infrastructure monitoring, agriculture, logistics, environmental surveillance, STEM education, and entertainment. He emphasized that the establishment of a secure and innovative drone hub envisioned by Drone Destination could position Cyprus as a leader in this vital sector for Europe and its international partners.
Drone Destination also confirmed it is actively engaging with both governmental and private sectors to craft a state-of-the-art drone ecosystem in Cyprus. The company perceives this as a prime opportunity to enhance sovereign capabilities, draw in foreign direct investments, and foster policy-driven innovation.
Alok Sharma, Chairman of Drone Destination, remarked on the significance of this venture by stating, “We are proud to bring India’s proven experience in drone services and pilot training to this initiative. Together, we can build a global center that combines India’s scale and innovation with Cyprus’s strategic location, IP protection, and policy clarity.”
This announcement not only signals a new chapter in India’s drone diplomacy but also fortifies economic collaboration between India and Cyprus, particularly in the realms of advanced technology and innovation.
