The Mandate for Indian Drones
With government policies mandating the use of NavIC in all navigation applications, the NavIC Drone Navigation Unit (NDNU) is a critical component for all Indian drone manufacturers. It is designed to replace foreign-made GNSS modules, ensuring compliance with national security directives and DGCA regulations.
The NDNU is a "First Time in India" solution that empowers the nation's push for self-reliance (Atmanirbharta). It provides superior accuracy and high integrity in the Indian region, especially in urban canyons and dense foliage where GPS-only signals can falter. By integrating this module, manufacturers can guarantee their products are secure, compliant, and optimized for performance in India.
Key Features
Multi-GNSS Support
Supports NavIC (IRNSS), GPS, and GLONASS for comprehensive coverage.
SBAS Enabled
Uses GAGAN for augmented accuracy and integrity.
High Channel Count
Features more than 128 channels for robust signal tracking.
Faster Acquisition
Ultra-low power consumption with faster TTFF and Cold Start.
Tiny & Lightweight
Weighs less than 70 grams with a tiny form factor for easy integration.
Easy Retrofitment
Enables simple retrofitment without altering existing drone infrastructure.
Core Applications
Surveillance & Mapping
High-precision tracking for defense, military, and land-mapping UAVs.
Logistics & Delivery
Reliable navigation for urban and rural drone delivery systems.
Agriculture Drones
Accurate positioning for crop spraying, monitoring, and analysis.
Disaster Management
Robust connectivity for emergency response and reconnaissance.
Technical Specifications
This specification applies to the Industrial-grade product. MIL-grade product can also be provided on request.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| GNSS | NavIC (IRNSS) L5, GPS L1, GLONASS L1 |
| SBAS | GAGAN |
| Channels | Supports more than 128 channels |
| Update Rate | 1 Hz default, up to 10 Hz |
| TTFF (Cold Start) | < 25 s (open sky) |
| TTFF (Hot Start) | 1 to 2 s (open sky) |
| Position Accuracy | Horizontal: 1 m CEP, Vertical: 3 m CEP |
| Protocol | NMEA 0183 ver: 4.1 |
| Supply Voltage | 5.0 V DC |
| Operating Temp. | -10°C to +50°C |
| Dimension | 64.2 x 64.2 x 19.6 mm |
| Weight | 68 grams |
Performance Comparison
| Parameter | Elena NDNU | Others |
|---|---|---|
| GNSS | All GNSS (NavIC, GPS, GLONASS) | GPS, GLONASS |
| Channels | More than 128 | 40 to 60 |
| Time to First Fix | Less than 40 s | More than 60 s |
| Position Accuracy | CEP: Less than 1 m | CEP: More than 5 m |
| SBAS Support | Yes | No |
Why NavIC?
Issues with GPS
GPS was designed during the Cold War era, primarily for temperate zones (55° N to 55° S). The MEO satellites face challenges in the equatorial zone due to high ionospheric scintillation.
A study by Prof. A. Bose et al. demonstrated periodic loss of coverage (20 to 180 minutes) for existing GNSS systems in this zone.
The NavIC Advantage
The same study by Prof. A. Bose et al. demonstrated zero loss in coverage for IRNSS (NavIC). This makes NavIC especially effective for critical applications in the equatorial region.
NavIC ensures continuous availability, highest integrity, complete reliability, and superior accuracy, unmatched by other GNSS systems under these challenging conditions.
About Elena Geo
Our Journey
Elena Geo was founded at the Technology Business Incubator (TBI) at IIT Kharagpur in 2012 and has quickly emerged as a pioneer in navigation technology.
Elena for Atmanirbharta
As the only Indian company that provides complete NavIC-based solutions, Elena Geo demonstrates unmatched expertise and innovation. Aligned with the Atma Nirbharta (self-reliance) initiative, we accelerate the commercialization of Indian navigation systems.
We maintain a stock of 10,000 NavIC processors to cater to Indian market demand, especially defence. This results in huge import savings, approximately Rs 1000 Crores, to the Govt Exchequer.
Elena for Defence
Elena Geo has developed and supplied many state-of-the-art products to the Indian Defence Forces. This includes 427 Army Reference Stations, 79 NavIC Receivers, 14 Marine Receivers for patrol boats, and 36 Handheld Navigators for OTA, Chennai.
Our Accolades
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this module compliant with DGCA regulations?
Answer: Yes, the NavIC Drone Navigation Unit is designed to be compliant with Indian government and DGCA policies mandating the use of NavIC in navigation applications.
2. What is the weight of the unit?
Answer: The unit is extremely lightweight, at just 68 grams.
3. Can this module be used to upgrade existing drones?
Answer: Yes, it is designed for easy retrofitment without needing to alter existing drone infrastructure.
4. Is a military-grade version available?
Answer: Yes, while the standard specification is for an Industrial-grade product, a MIL-grade product can be provided.
Contact & Procurement
For direct purchase inquiries, custom solutions, or any questions, please reach out to us using the form below or contact us directly.