Specialists from the Advanced Aerospace Engineering School and the Unmanned Systems Center of Samara University have successfully tested a hybrid-power unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for agricultural applications. Furthermore, the team actively participated in designing the ecosystem of technological workshops at "Archipelago 2026," a major project-based educational intensive held in Nizhny Novgorod.
Samara University was represented by experts from the Advanced Aerospace Engineering School and the Unmanned Systems Center. The team took a leading role in the "Drone-Garage" technological workshop, where their latest developments were demonstrated and put to the test. The event also featured dynamic engineering competitions and a robust exchange of best practices among tech teams, educational institutions, and industry experts.
During the intensive, specialists from the Unmanned Systems Center presented a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) UAV equipped with a hybrid powertrain designed specifically for agricultural tasks, such as crop spraying. This innovative design seamlessly combines an electric propulsion system, an internal combustion engine with a generator, and backup battery packs. This architecture is engineered to significantly extend flight endurance and ensure the reliability of the onboard power supply. Prior to the event, the prototype had already undergone rigorous flight testing, including both manual and autonomous flight modes, at Samara University’s training airfield. At "Archipelago," university experts engaged in productive discussions with industry specialists regarding the further refinement and practical deployment of this unmanned platform.
A second key focus for the university at "Archipelago 2026" was participation in a research laboratory dedicated to developing the comprehensive educational model of the "Drone-Garage" technological workshop. Samara University was represented by the Digital Factory of Regional Aviation and UAV Systems within the Advanced Aerospace Engineering School. Laboratory participants worked on designing an ecosystem of specialized AI agents intended to seamlessly integrate technology testing, engineering competitions, the development of educational modules, and the creation of personalized learning trajectories for students.
The insights and experience gained at the intensive will be instrumental in shaping the Samara "Drone-Garage" facility, establishing it as a unified, one-stop hub for technology companies, research and student teams, educational organizations, and clients seeking advanced solutions in the field of unmanned aviation systems.
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The "Archipelago 2026" event was organized by the Government of the Nizhny Novgorod Region, the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI), the NTI Platform ANO, University 2035, and the NTI Foundation. The core focus of the program centers on autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and cutting-edge energy and digital solutions.
