By Abhay Ray 
Introduction
Sanlayan Technologies, a Bengaluru-based startup focused on defence electronics, has successfully raised ₹186 crore through its Series A funding round. This fresh capital is expected to strengthen the company’s role in India’s defence technology sector and accelerate its plans to develop advanced indigenous systems.
About Sanlayan Technologies
Sanlayan Technologies is a startup based in Bengaluru, India, founded in 2023 by Rohan Gala, Abhijit Kothawale, and Rahul V. The company focuses on manufacturing electronics for military systems. They provide specialised solutions for satellite communication, space exploration, and space situational awareness, offering robust and reliable products. They also help with business expansion and strategy for defence and technology projects. The company previously raised $4.4 million in seed funding in March 2024 from institutional investors like First Cheque, Gemba Capital, and Singularity Ventures.
Major Funding to Drive Expansion
The company’s Series A funding round was supported by several well-known investors. Notable participants in this round included seasoned investor Ashish Kacholia, Lashit Sanghvi, and the globally active Jungle Ventures. Additionally, existing backers like Gemba Capital and Singularity Ventures contributed to this round, while Shastra VC also came onboard as a new investor.
This investment will enable Sanlayan to scale its operations, expand its workforce, and enhance its research and development activities. The company plans to grow organically by building new solutions and also aims to acquire other businesses to rapidly increase its technological reach.
Boosting Capabilities Through Dexcel Electronics Acquisition
In a move to strengthen its core offerings, Sanlayan recently acquired a controlling stake in Dexcel Electronics, a Bengaluru-based embedded systems company with two decades of experience. Dexcel has contributed to major national programs such as Jaguar, Sukhoi, LCA Tejas, and Chandrayaan-3.
This acquisition is aimed at accelerating Sanlayan’s ability to deliver sophisticated, indigenous defence solutions across aerospace and space sectors. Sanlayan is also leveraging its internal R&D resources to develop an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar system specifically designed for India’s Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) initiative—positioning itself at the forefront of India’s next-gen defence innovations.
Focus on Building Advanced Technologies
Sanlayan is actively working on several critical defence projects that align with India’s goal of technological self-reliance. One of its primary projects is the development of an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar system for unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). This project involves collaboration with multiple Indian defence startups and global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
The company is also focusing on creating cutting-edge Electronic Warfare (EW) systems and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (CUAS). These technologies are crucial for protecting India’s military assets from modern threats like drones and electronic attacks. Sanlayan’s efforts directly support the Indian government’s push to build a strong indigenous defence manufacturing base and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
Aggressive Hiring to Build Strong Teams
With the new funding secured, Sanlayan plans to significantly expand its workforce. The company aims to increase the size of its engineering and leadership teams by nearly five times within the next six months.
Sanlayan is particularly looking to hire experienced engineers, retired defence personnel, research specialists, and industry experts from both government and private sectors. By strengthening its talent pool, the company will be able to handle more complex defence projects and accelerate product development.
Investor Confidence in Sanlayan’s Future
Investor Ashish Kacholia expressed strong confidence in Sanlayan’s growth potential, emphasizing the importance of building defence technologies within India. He highlighted the company’s deep understanding of the sector and its ability to address the country’s defence needs.
Rohan Gala, Co-Founder and CEO of Sanlayan, commented that India’s defence sector is currently experiencing unprecedented growth, and the company is committed to becoming a key contributor to this progress. He also stressed the importance of scaling up quickly to meet increasing demand.
Rishab Malik, Partner at Jungle Ventures, pointed out that Sanlayan’s focused approach and disciplined operations provide the right foundation for the company to achieve long-term success, especially after its acquisition of Dexcel Electronics.
Alignment with India’s Defence Self-Reliance Goals
Sanlayan’s growth strategy is in complete alignment with the Indian government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which emphasizes the development of indigenous technologies to strengthen national security and reduce import dependency. Sanlayan’s combined strategy of research, acquisition, and international collaboration is designed to position the company as a leader in the Indian defence electronics space. Company’s focus on self-reliant innovation makes it a valuable contributor to India’s ambition to build a robust and globally competitive defence ecosystem.
Conclusion
Sanlayan Technologies’ ₹186 crore Series A funding marks a pivotal moment in its mission to advance India’s defence electronics sector. With strategic acquisitions like Dexcel Electronics, ambitious R&D initiatives in AESA radar and EW systems, and aggressive hiring plans, the company is rapidly scaling to meet national security demands. Backed by strong investor confidence and aligned with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, Sanlayan is poised to play a key role in bolstering India’s self-reliance in defence technology and emerging as a leader in next-gen indigenous defence solutions.
GetMyIndia.com RaysVeda.com LawCanal.com Angeltors.com GMICapitals.com