Pune: olee.space, a leading innovator in photonics and defense technology, has appointed Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Rajiva Ranjan VM (Retd) as its Strategic Defense Advisor.
With an illustrious career spanning over 30 years in the Indian Air Force, AVM Ranjan will strengthen olee.space’s mission to advance next-generation optics, photonics, and space-based defense systems.
olee.space strengthens defense expertise with AVM Rajiva Ranjan
AVM Ranjan’s expertise in fighter operations, integrated warfare, and defense technology will guide olee.space in building high-energy laser systems for multi-domain and multi-level warfare. His leadership experience aligns with India’s long-term defense vision.
James Solomon, Founder & CEO of olee.space, said, “We are pleased to welcome AVM Ranjan to olee.space. His deep expertise in operational strategy, adoption of new technologies in the Air Force, and experience in futuristic missions will be invaluable as we design cutting-edge systems to enhance Bharat’s defense and strategic communication capabilities.”
Distinguished career of AVM Rajiva Ranjan
Commissioned into the Fighter Stream of the Indian Air Force in 1987, AVM Ranjan is a Fighter Combat Leader and a Qualified Flying Instructor. He has logged over 3,850 hours of accident-free flying across 15 fighter and trainer aircraft.
Over his career, he has commanded the MiG Operational Flying Training Unit, led two forward air bases, and served as Assistant Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (ICT) and Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Operations–Space).
He has also been decorated with the Chief of Air Staff Commendation Award (1998, 2003) and the Vayu Sena Medal (2008). Additionally, he served as Air Attaché at the Indian Embassy in Kabul and contributed to operational doctrines for the MiG-21 Bison fleet.
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olee.space advancing photonics and defense innovation
Commenting on his new role, AVM Ranjan said, “I am delighted to guide olee.space in this exciting phase. The company’s focus on photonics, laser-based communication, and anti-drone technologies can significantly enhance India’s defense preparedness and technological self-reliance.”
Earlier this year, olee.space secured $3 million in seed funding from global and domestic investors, including BIG Global, IIM A Ventures, Rockstud Capital, and SIDBI. These funds will accelerate innovation in strategic photonics and defense communication.
Based in Pune, olee.space develops advanced solutions in Free-Space Optical Communication (FSOC), quantum-encrypted networking, and directed energy weapons for India’s defense, aerospace, and telecom sectors.
Its systems are designed to deliver low latency, maximum security, and optimized data throughput across terrestrial, inter-satellite, and ground-to-space networks.
