IdeaForge’s ‘Make in India’ Drone Tech Makes Debut in US Defence Training
Published: 20 Mar 2026
Author: Precedence Research
Indian drone maker ideaForge Technology has launched a specialized UAV flight-test training program for NATO military personnel at the National Test Pilot School (NTPS) in the United States, marking a major achievement for India's homegrown defense industry.
IdeaForge Soars: First Indian Firm Training NATO Pilots
The week-long program, which started on 9 March, centers on ideaForge's NATO-certified SWITCH UAV platform and aims to give allied forces practical experience in UAV flight-testing procedures and operational deployment in simulated mission scenarios.
According to Precedence Research, the EMC Testing Market size accounted for USD 3.18 billion in 2025 and is predicted to increase from USD 3.42 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 6.62 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 7.60% from 2026 to 2035 as demand grows for strict international regulatory compliance (FCC, CE, CISPR), rising demand for consumer electronics/IoT devices, and the rapid electrification and automation of the automotive industry.
Countries taking part include Canada, Israel, India, Germany, Australia, Italy, Sweden, and the United States, bringing together defense experts from four continents. The Royal Canadian Air Force, Israeli Air Force, Indian Navy, Bundeswehr, Royal Australian Air Force, along with the Italian and US Air Forces, are all participating. Training modules include flight-test planning, telemetry monitoring, payload operations, mission evaluation, and post-flight data analysis.
The curriculum focuses on real-world operational scenarios, enabling trainees to assess UAV performance across different mission profiles while gaining extensive experience with integrated aerial systems essential for modern defense operations.
A New Era for Indian Defence: ideaForge Partners with NATO at US Test Facility
The SWITCH UAV is known for its functions in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. Its lightweight hybrid design supports long-range, high-altitude missions, ensuring reliable performance in difficult terrains and bad weather conditions.
Luca Campello, President of the NTPS, stated that this partnership allows students to participate in real flight-test planning, execution, and data analysis in a safe, cost-effective setting. The platform combines an air vehicle, sensors, datalink, and ground control system, giving trainees complete exposure to the entire systems-test process.
The program is widely seen as a driver for enhancing relationships between ideaForge and international defense organizations, which could speed up lasting partnerships and improve the global acceptance of Indian UAV technologies.
A recent report by Precedence Research highlights that the EMC Testing Market is benefiting from rapid electrification of vehicles (EVs), advancements in autonomous driving technology, and the proliferation of 5G networks and IoT devices.