Green Aero, a deeptech startup founded at IIT Delhi, has secured $1.6 million in a seed funding round spearheaded by pi Ventures, with contributions from Antler, aimed at developing next-generation propulsion systems for defense and hydrogen-fueled civil aviation.

Given India’s heavy dependence on imported turbine engines, the startup identifies an opportunity to create homegrown propulsion solutions. The company recently revealed it has conducted test firings of India’s inaugural hydrogen-based aero engine.

The funding will facilitate Green Aero’s research and development initiatives and aid in setting up an in-house testing facility. Additionally, the funds will be utilized for expanding the team as it gears up for commercial pilots in both defense and aviation sectors.

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Founder Prithwish Kundu, a former research scientist at the US Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory who has worked with NASA and the US Army, states that the startup's goal is to develop core propulsion technology for aerospace, naval, and hydrogen-powered civilian aircraft, marking a significant first for India.

“We are excited to be at the forefront of developing advanced aero engine technologies in India for the world. This is the need of the hour for modern defence and aviation requirements,” Prithwish adds.

The startup plans to commercialize its first small-category engine within the next 12 months while laying the groundwork for a larger engine platform.

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“India has historically lagged in aerospace innovation, but that’s changing fast. Green Aero is building world-class aero engines from the ground up in India, with a laser-sharp focus on efficiency and performance,” says Shubham Sandeep, managing director at pi Ventures.