Astrek Innovations wins prestigious DRDO honour

Kochi / October 28, 2024

Kochi, Oct. 28: Kerala-based Astrek Innovations, a leading developer of exoskeleton technology, has won the prestigious Exploring Unthinkable and Unimaginable challenge.

The competition was held as part of the Dare to Dream (D2D) 4.0 competition, which was organised by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The DRDO also supports the best-awarded ideas by helping make them prototypes through the Ministry of Defense's Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme.

Defense Minister Shri Rajnath Singh presented the award to Alex M Sunny, CTO & Co-founder, Astrek Innovations, at a function held at the DRDO Bhawan in New Delhi. Primarily known for its medical exoskeletons or wearables, which improve strength and mobility, Astrek showcased the technology's versatile capabilities in military logistics applications.

By adapting its exoskeleton design, the company demonstrated how it could enhance soldier performance, reduce physical strain, and increase operational efficiency. Its promoters said the recognition underscores their commitment to innovation and its potential to contribute significantly to India's defence capabilities.

They said the company’s vision is to stay close to the idea of locally providing state-of-the-art technology for the armed forces through the Make in India initiative.

“I am proud to have this opportunity to make a great contribution to India’s defence sector,” said Jitin Vidya Ajith, the co-founder and COO. 

“Astrek is capable of manufacturing various products ranging from healthcare to defence technology. The effort is to bring a revolutionary change in this sector.”

Exoskeleton technology was launched as a health product but later redesigned to match the needs of the armed forces. It can increase the efficiency of the soldiers, reduce the physical problems and increase the performance. 

“The award aligns with Astrek Innovations' broader vision to support Make in India initiative and develop cutting-edge solutions for both civilian and military sectors,” he said.

“The company's innovative approach has the potential to revolutionise various industries, from healthcare to manufacturing.”

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