SOURCE: AFI
In a moment of triumph for Indian innovation, Team Aerial Robotics has clinched 3rd place globally in the simulation stage of the International Conference on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (ICUAS) 2025 UAV Competition. This stellar achievement has earned them an exclusive invitation to the final stage of the prestigious event, scheduled for May 14-17, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. Notably, they stand alone as the only Indian team to advance to this phase, marking a historic milestone for the country’s burgeoning robotics and aerospace community.
A student-led initiative from the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur), Team Aerial Robotics has emerged as a trailblazer in the realm of autonomous aerial vehicles. Their journey to the ICUAS finals underscores their dedication to pushing the boundaries of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology through rigorous global competitions like the International Micro Air Vehicle Conference and Competition (IMAV) and the International Aerial Robotics Competition (IARC). Committed to open-source innovation and practical UAV applications, the team embodies the spirit of excellence, representing both their institution and India with unparalleled pride on the world stage.
The ICUAS 2025 UAV Competition challenged participants to deploy a swarm of five drones in a simulated urban environment, tasked with optimizing marker identification while adhering to strict operational constraints. The team’s solution required the drones to maintain constant communication with a central base and ensure an unbroken line-of-sight between all agents—a complex feat given potential interference and the dynamic nature of the setting. Leveraging advanced algorithms, real-time coordination, and innovative design, Team Aerial Robotics excelled in this high-stakes simulation, securing their spot among the top global contenders.
The competition, organized by the ICUAS Association in collaboration with institutions like the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, is renowned for its focus on cutting-edge unmanned aviation technologies. The simulation stage, conducted remotely using a ROS-Gazebo environment, tested teams from across the world, with only the elite advancing to the in-person finals. There, the team will showcase their skills using Crazyflie drones in a live arena, competing against the best in the field.
Team Aerial Robotics is no stranger to accolades, having consistently demonstrated prowess in autonomous systems and aerial robotics. Their commitment to open-source development has not only fostered collaboration within the global UAV community but also paved the way for real-world applications—ranging from disaster response to precision agriculture. This latest achievement at ICUAS 2025 builds on their legacy, highlighting their ability to innovate under pressure and deliver solutions with global impact.
The team credits their success to a collective effort spanning years of hard work and dedication. Under the mentorship of Prof. Ketan Rajawat, whose unwavering support and technical guidance have been instrumental, the team has flourished. They also extend heartfelt gratitude to all past and present members whose contributions have shaped their journey. From late-night brainstorming sessions to meticulous testing, every step has culminated in this proud moment.
As the only Indian team to reach the ICUAS 2025 finals, Team Aerial Robotics is not just competing—they are inspiring. Their success shines a spotlight on India’s growing capabilities in robotics and aerospace, sectors critical to the nation’s technological and strategic ambitions. With the Indian military and civilian sectors increasingly investing in UAVs—evidenced by recent moves like the $7.6 billion Rafale-M deal for the Navy and the deployment of advanced systems like the S-400—the team’s work aligns with a broader national push toward self-reliance and innovation.
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