Former Bharat Electronics CMD V. Gowtama Mannava joins Olee.Space as strategic production advisor

Olee.Space, a photonics and defense technology firm, on Monday announced the appointment of Venkateswara Gowtama Mannava, former Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), as its Strategic Production Advisor. With a career spanning more than 4 decades in India's defense electronics and technology sector, Gowtama brings extensive experience in strategic leadership, growth through innovation, and large-scale defense production.

In his advisory role, Gowtama will lead Olee.Space through developing cutting-edge defence electronic systems encompassing various technologies including LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and Secure Communication Networks as per India's vision for long-term technological self-reliance and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

James Solomon, Founder & CEO, Olee.Space, said in a statement, “Gowtama's appointment represents a turning point for Olee.Space as we move forward to align our innovations with India's strategic vision for defense and civilian use cases. His unmatched deep experience in heading indigenous defense programmes will lead us to speed up technology development and drive operational excellence across our programs.”


An experienced technocrat, Gowtama was the Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Electronics Limited. During his tenure, BEL solidified its position as India's premier defense electronics company, breaking new ground in radar, communications, and electronic warfare systems. He promoted R&D partnerships, defense electronics innovation, and convergence of emerging technologies across spheres.

He said in a statement, "Passion and commitment are driving the Olee.Space team to new frontiers. I am excited to join a team that is transforming how India develops and deploys cutting-edge defense technologies, and I look forward to supporting their mission of technological superiority and self-reliance."