Raphe mPhibr Revolutionizes UAV Development with Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE Platform
Raphe mPhibr, India’s leading innovator in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) manufacturing, has embraced Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform to redefine the design, validation, and production of next-generation aircraft systems. This cutting-edge technology has enabled the company to dramatically reduce its prototype development time from years to just three months, while fostering a new era of innovation in aerospace engineering.
The Growing Importance of UAVs
Unmanned aerial systems are rapidly gaining traction across diverse sectors, including defense, homeland security, agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure monitoring. By 2030, the global UAV market is projected to reach an estimated 6.5 million units, underscoring the growing demand for advanced, high-performance systems. To support India’s vision of achieving self-reliance in aerospace and defense, Raphe mPhibr recognized the need for a transformative approach to integrate cutting-edge technology and advanced scientific principles into its design process. The goal was clear: engineer UAVs with superior strength-to-weight performance, increased payload capacity, and unparalleled efficiency.
A Unified Approach to Design and Manufacturing
Raphe mPhibr designs and manufactures everything in-house, from metals and composites to electronics, ensuring complete control over quality and innovation. However, traditional methods often resulted in lengthy development cycles, limiting the company’s ability to scale and innovate. Enter the 3DEXPERIENCE platform—a comprehensive solution that integrates design, simulation, and collaboration into a single environment, enabling seamless in-house design and manufacturing.
One of the most remarkable achievements facilitated by the platform was during the development of Raphe mPhibr’s engine. Historically, such projects required several years of effort due to the complexity of designing and testing components. With the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, this process was condensed to just three months. The platform empowered engineers to optimize parts specifically for 3D manufacturing, reducing material waste and enhancing precision.
Achieving Breakthroughs in Weight Reduction and Aerodynamics
The platform also enabled Raphe mPhibr to push the boundaries of engineering through advanced simulation and design workflows. For instance, the company successfully reduced the weight of its 4kW 2-stroke engine—which outperforms systems seven times its weight—by 700 grams (1.54 pounds). This breakthrough was achieved through an integrated design and simulation process that allowed the team to experiment with complex composite materials and structures.
Moreover, the shift toward 3D-centric design thinking opened new possibilities for creating organic, nature-inspired designs. Unlike traditional geometric shapes, biological systems such as plants, anatomical structures, and geological formations inspired the team to think beyond straight lines and rigid forms. This approach not only enhanced creativity but also led to more intuitive and efficient part development.
“Designing and manufacturing a drone is akin to building an entire aircraft,” said Vikash Mishra, Chairman of Raphe mPhibr. “Our drones consist of 20,000 to 30,000 parts. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform allows us to think in 3D—not confined to straight lines, circles, or squares. It enables us to design organically, without limitations. It’s the best software to bring our vision to life.”
Accelerating Innovation Through Virtual Twin Experiences
At the heart of Raphe mPhibr’s success lies the concept of virtual twin experiences—digital replicas of physical systems that simulate real-world performance. These virtual twins allow engineers to test and validate designs before physical prototypes are built, significantly reducing costs and accelerating development timelines.
David Ziegler, Vice President of Aerospace and Defense Industry at Dassault Systèmes, highlighted the broader implications of Raphe mPhibr’s adoption of the platform: “This collaboration demonstrates how innovators are leveraging virtual twin experiences to build tomorrow’s advanced air mobility solutions. Raphe mPhibr’s focus on in-house design sets a new benchmark for engineering excellence. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform combines all aspects of design, simulation, and collaboration in a unified environment, driving innovation and operational efficiency.”
Scaling for the Future
Raphe mPhibr’s recent accomplishments underscore its position as a trailblazer in the UAV industry. The company recently secured $100 million in funding in a round led by General Catalyst—the largest private funding round for an Indian aircraft manufacturer to date. This investment will fuel further growth, enabling Raphe mPhibr to expand its workforce, enhance its research and development capabilities, and scale its manufacturing facilities.
With a team of over 500 professionals and more than 100 unique intellectual property assets, Raphe mPhibr has already logged over one million kilometers (621,371 miles) of operational flight time with India’s security forces. Looking ahead, the company plans to leverage virtual twin experiences for lifecycle management, ensuring continuous improvement and innovation across its product portfolio.
Redefining the Future of Aerospace Engineering
Raphe mPhibr’s partnership with Dassault Systèmes exemplifies how technology can revolutionize traditional industries. By adopting the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, the company has not only shortened development cycles but also unlocked new levels of creativity and efficiency in UAV design. As the demand for unmanned systems continues to grow, Raphe mPhibr is poised to lead the charge in delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of defense, logistics, and beyond.
In an era where speed, precision, and innovation are paramount, Raphe mPhibr’s strategic use of digital tools serves as a model for other manufacturers aiming to stay ahead in the race for technological supremacy. The integration of virtual twin experiences, advanced simulation, and collaborative workflows ensures that the company remains at the forefront of aerospace innovation, paving the way for a brighter, more connected future.
About Dassault Systèmes
Dassault Systèmes is a catalyst for human progress. Since 1981, the company has pioneered virtual worlds to improve real life for consumers, patients and citizens. With Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 370,000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, can collaborate, imagine and create sustainable innovations that drive meaningful impact.
