Rashtriya Raksha University’s Strategic Partnership with Starburst Aerospace: Driving Innovation in Aerospace, Defence, and Security

Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) in Gandhinagar, India, and Starburst Aerospace of France have signed a significant memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing innovation in aerospace, defence, and homeland security. This collaboration, aligned with the India-France Strategic Partnership, includes the creation of a 100 million euros venture capital fund and export promotion support for Indian startups.

Key Highlights

• Venture Capital Fund: The MoU establishes a venture capital fund of 100 million euros dedicated to aerospace, defence, and security technology, fostering innovation and growth in these sectors.
• Export Promotion Support: Indian startups will receive export promotion support to explore international markets, enhancing their global reach and impact.
• Strategic Alliance: The partnership extends to include Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA), focusing on fostering innovation and driving advancements in aerospace, defence, and homeland security sectors.

Dignitaries and Statements

• Prof. Bimal N. Patel: Vice-Chancellor of RRU, emphasized the transformative potential of the partnership, highlighting RRU’s commitment to fostering innovation and self-reliance in defence and security domains.
• Francois Chopard: CEO of Starburst, France, highlighted the collaboration’s significance in fostering a vibrant ecosystem for technological innovation and entrepreneurial growth in aerospace, space, and defence sectors.
• Col Nidhish Bhatnagar: Managing Director, SASTRA, emphasized the partnership’s role in propelling innovation and spearheading advancements in aerospace, defence, and homeland security, contributing to India’s technological prowess and security.
• Maj Gen ND Prasad (Retd.): Director, School of Internal Security, Defence & Strategic Studies, RRU, expressed confidence in leveraging transformative technologies to fortify India’s self-reliance and global leadership in safeguarding national interests.
• Maj Gen Deepak Mehra (Retd.): Director, School of Internal Security and SMART Policing (SISSP), RRU, highlighted the opportunity to utilize AI-based technologies in security architecture, revolutionizing the dynamic ecosystem of national security and contributing to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation.