Veterans Driving Innovation in Defence

  Tue, 02/18/2025 - 11:05
  Posted in

Bengaluru, Feb 12

Jamwant Ventures Angel Fund, a SEBI-registered Category 1 Alternative Investment Fund (AIF), is at the forefront of India’s defence and deep tech investment ecosystem. Founded by Cdr Navneet Kaushik, Cdr Kartik Gopal, and Dr. Jyotsana Dalal, the fund is uniquely positioned to support defence startups with both capital and strategic guidance, ensuring they develop globally competitive technologies.

At Aero India, India’s premier aerospace and defence exhibition, Jamwant-backed startup Spacefields Pvt Ltd is showcasing its Aerospike engine technology at the iDEX pavilion. Another portfolio company, TIEA Connectors, is making strides in customized military-grade connectors, essential for modern defence applications. Both startups, incubated at IISc Bangalore, have won iDEX challenges, reinforcing the fund’s commitment to cutting-edge defence innovation.

Bridging the Gap in Defence Investments

“Investors often struggle to assess defence technologies. At Jamwant Ventures, we don’t just invest; we guide startups in product development to meet global standards,” said Cdr Kaushik, adding that four to five more deep tech and defence startups will be funded in the next quarter.

With backgrounds in technology commercialization, supply chain management, and ERP systems, the founders leverage their expertise to help startups navigate the complexities of the defence sector.

Veteran-Led Advisory Panel

Jamwant Ventures is backed by a high-profile advisory board, including:

• Vice Admiral AB Singh (Retd) – Former Commander-in-Chief, Indian Navy

• Admiral KG Vishwanathan (Retd) – Former Head, Naval Tactics & Strategy Division

• Cmde Arun Golaya (Retd) – Expert in the defence startup ecosystem

• AP Sarma – Former CEO, SIDBI Venture Capital Fund

• Prof. Parag Bhargava (IIT Bombay) – Advisor on materials and technology

With Aatmanirbhar Bharat driving defence self-reliance, Jamwant Ventures Angel Fund is playing a crucial role in shaping next-gen aerospace and defence startups, ensuring India remains at the forefront of global innovation.