Tonbo Imaging, a defense technology company based in Bengaluru, raised Rs. 175 crore, or $21 million, from the Export-Import Bank of India, Florintree Advisors, and Tenacity Ventures in its Series D Pre-IPO round.

The money raised will help the business grow internationally and create next-generation infrared sensors and powerful energy weaponry.

Tonbo Imaging, founded by Arvind Lakshmikumar, combines computer vision, artificial intelligence, and optics to provide sophisticated targeting and surveillance systems that operate on land, in the air, and at sea. Its main goal is to create autonomous, lightweight platforms that can function in challenging combat environments.

Tonbo Imaging manufactures advanced targeting and vision systems that are utilized in military activities across the globe. Its products improve battlefield awareness and are already in use by the Indian Army, NATO, Israeli Defense Forces, and the U.S. Navy SEALs in more than 30 countries.

Tonbo is currently preparing for its IPO after raising more than Rs. 300 crore in earlier rounds from investors like Qualcomm and Edelweiss.

"This investment enables us to push the boundaries of innovation in infrared imaging and directed energy solutions while scaling our global footprint. Our focus remains on delivering cost-effective, cutting-edge battlefield intelligence and protection systems to modern defense forces worldwide," said Arvind Lakshmikumar, Founder and CEO, Tonbo Imaging.

"We are excited to partner with Arvind and his management team to scale the business and build a global defense tech business out of India," said Mathew Cyriac, Founder, Florintree Capital.