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India’s spacetech ecosystem has received another boost with Digantara‘s announcement of a $50 million Series B funding round. The Bengaluru based startup, which specializes in space situational awareness, has attracted investment from some of India’s most prominent backers, with Reliance Industries leading the round.
The funding values Digantara at approximately $200 million, representing a significant milestone for the company founded in 2018 by Anirudh Sharma. Beyond Reliance’s substantial $30 million investment through Reliance Business Ventures, the round included contributions from 360 One Asset ($10 million), Japan’s SBI Holdings ($3 million), and continued support from existing investors Peak XV Partners and Kalaari Capital. Notable entrepreneur Ronnie Screwvala, founder of upGrad, also participated in the round.
Strategic Expansion Plans
Digantara’s timing appears strategic, particularly given its recent selection for the Golden Dome missile defence programme in the United States. This multi layered defence system integrates technologies across ground, sea, air, and space domains, positioning Digantara among a select group of companies capable of contributing to critical defence infrastructure.
The company plans to utilize the fresh capital primarily for international expansion, with the US market being a key priority. This geographical diversification represents a natural progression for a company that serves governments, defence agencies, and commercial clients worldwide.
Building Infrastructure for Orbital Safety
At its core, Digantara addresses a growing challenge in space operations: tracking and monitoring objects in orbit to prevent collisions and ensure safe satellite operations. With space becoming increasingly congested due to satellite mega constellations and debris accumulation, the need for reliable space situational awareness has never been greater.
The company currently maintains three satellites in orbit, demonstrating its operational capabilities. The first two missions concentrated on monitoring space weather conditions, while the most recent satellite focuses on tracking objects in space. This dual approach provides comprehensive data for orbital safety.
Manufacturing Ambitions
A portion of the new funding will support Digantara’s ambition to scale production and develop in house satellite manufacturing capabilities. This vertical integration could provide the company with greater control over its technology stack and potentially reduce costs as it expands its satellite constellation.
The significant backing from Reliance Industries, one of India’s largest conglomerates, signals growing corporate interest in the space sector. As India continues to liberalize its space policy and encourage private sector participation, companies like Digantara are well positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in both domestic and international markets.
Also Read: Indian Space Tech Startup EtherealX Secures $20.5 Million in Series A Funding Led by TDK Ventures
