OptiValue launches ICUDS to bolster counter-UAV defence

OptiValue Tek has launched ICUDS, an AI-enabled counter-UAV and airspace intelligence platform, marking a broader push into defence technology.

ICUDS is designed to support the detection, identification, tracking, classification, assessment, prediction and response to aerial threats. The platform is aimed at protecting critical assets as demand rises for systems that help operators monitor airspace and respond to emerging risks.

OptiValue's entry into the sector has been backed by a multi-million-dollar government order awarded through the Government e-Marketplace, although the company did not disclose the order's value.

The defence initiative is part of a wider strategy focused on AI, Digital Twins and intelligent infrastructure. OptiValue is seeking to expand across defence, energy, manufacturing, ports, logistics and smart infrastructure, where organisations are increasingly combining simulation, engineering and operational data in day-to-day decision-making.

Digital twin focus

Another priority for the business is the use of Digital Twins beyond traditional engineering and asset management. OptiValue sees growing scope for digital replicas of physical assets and systems in defence simulation, mission rehearsal, infrastructure stress testing and resilience planning.

These models allow organisations to test scenarios, assess vulnerabilities and examine the likely effects of disruptions before they affect live operations. OptiValue is combining that work with AI, simulation tools and data engineering as it builds out its advisory and technology portfolio.

Alongside the defence push, the company has expanded through a series of partnerships. Its collaboration with Eagle Infrastructure India covers agentic AI, Digital Twins, cloud, IoT and analytics for infrastructure projects, while a separate tie-up with SFJ Business Solutions focuses on AI-led transformation programmes for large enterprises.

OptiValue has also added an IoT-based vehicle safety platform to its technology portfolio. The product extends its work in connected systems at a time when transport and industrial operators are placing greater emphasis on monitoring, automation and risk reduction.

OptiValue describes itself as a technology and strategic advisory business spanning digital engineering, AI and emerging technologies. Its latest strategy reflects the view that defence and critical infrastructure customers are looking for more integrated tools that connect software models with physical operations.

Setting out that position, Ashish Kumar, Chairman, OptiValue Tek, said: "The next technology opportunity is not AI in isolation, but the ability to connect intelligence with the physical systems that power economies and national security. Digital Twins can provide that bridge by enabling organisations to model assets, test disruption and anticipate risk before it reaches the real world. Our ambition is to build a technology-led, IP-driven company that can contribute to the next generation of digital infrastructure across defence, industry and other strategic sectors."

OptiValue expects the convergence of AI, engineering, simulation and cyber resilience to create new opportunities in defence and critical infrastructure. Its longer-term plan is to connect digital engineering with mission intelligence and use Digital Twins to improve visibility over assets and potential threats.

That places the company in parts of the market where public and private sector buyers are spending on systems that can model disruption, strengthen resilience and support operational planning. The government order linked to ICUDS suggests OptiValue has already secured an early foothold in that segment, even as it broadens its work with infrastructure and enterprise partners.