Johnnette Technologies bags Indian Army order for tactical drone JF-2 for border surveillance

Johnnette Technologies, a leading Indian UAV manufacturer, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving an order to supply its flagship tactical fixed-wing drone, the Johnnette JF-2, to the Indian Army for border surveillance. This development is a testament to the Make-in-India initiative, strongly advocated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, aimed at achieving self-reliance in Defence.

The Innovation Behind Johnnette JF-2

Founded in 2014 by Lt Cdr John Livingstone, a retired officer of the Indian Navy, Johnnette Technologies Private Limited has been at the forefront of unmanned systems technology development for both Military and Commercial applications in India. The Johnnette JF-2, designed by a team led by Lt Cdr Livingstone, is a tactical fixed-wing UAV notable for its lightweight and crash-resistant features, particularly its sturdy belly-landing design. “It is a great feeling to be able to serve the nation even after retiring from the Defence Forces,” said Lt Cdr John Livingstone. “My team has done prolonged R&D and have created this tactical fixed-wing UAV, Johnnette JF-2, for the Military requirements.”

India’s First Crash-Resistant Drone JF-2 by Johnnette Technologies to Bolster Indian Army Surveillance. Photo courtesy of Business Wire India/Johnnette Technologies Pvt Ltd.

Key Features of Johnnette JF-2

The Johnnette JF-2 is a hand-launched fixed-wing tactical UAV, designed specifically for surveillance and reconnaissance operations. Equipped with high-definition day and thermal imaging cameras, it is ideal for day and night operations. The drone’s crash-proof avionics bay and anti-jamming and anti-spoofing features make it a robust solution for land forces. Its deployment by the Indian Army for border surveillance marks a first in its class.

Johnnette Technologies’ Role in Unmanned Systems Technology

Since its inception, Johnnette Technologies Pvt Ltd. has been pioneering in the development of Unmanned Systems Technology in India. The company offers high-quality aerospace systems to the paramilitary, commercial, aerospace, and defence sectors. Apart from the Johnnette JF-2, the company manufactures low-cost loitering munitions and plans to produce Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) in the future.

This strategic development by Johnnette Technologies not only enhances India’s defence capabilities but also solidifies the country’s position in the field of advanced unmanned systems technology.