Hyderabad Startup Apollyon Dynamics Sets 498 Kmph Record With Drone Interceptor

Hyderabad-based defence startup Apollyon Dynamics, incubated at BITS Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, has developed an electric multirotor drone interceptor named Ahuti Mk II that achieved a certified top speed of 498 kmph. The feat earned the company recognition in the India Book of Records for the maximum speed achieved by a multirotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

Unlike conventional drones deployed for surveillance, photography, or carrying payloads, Ahuti Mk II was designed specifically as a high-speed interceptor. Apollyon co-founder Jayant Khatri stated that the platform was engineered to rapidly close distances against hostile drones and loitering munitions.

The aircraft evolved from the original Ahuti platform, which reached approximately 300 kmph in 2025. Rather than simply modifying the initial model, the development team rebuilt the system specifically for interception roles. In less than a year, the certified top speed increased by nearly 200 kmph, representing a jump of roughly 66 percent.

"Speed isn't a spec sheet number for us. It's the difference between a threat neutralised and a threat that got through. A speed of 498 km/h means we win that race," co-founder Sourya Choudhary said.

The startup noted that the platform's design was prompted by the increasing deployment of low-cost drones and loitering munitions, including Shahed-class systems. To avoid relying exclusively on significantly more expensive defensive systems, Apollyon focused on combining speed, autonomous capabilities, and cost efficiency to counter aerial threats.

The record-setting aircraft was developed by a team comprising Aman Virani (known as "Shady"), Manas Vichare, and Ishaan Suri. Virani, a high-speed drone pilot, handled flight testing and development alongside the engineering team.

Incorporated in 2025, Apollyon operates under the motto "Precision is Mercy" and has already fielded unmanned systems with Indian Army units. The company's long-term roadmap includes developing a Power Cruise Missile platform by 2030.