Kanpur, 28 March, 2025: The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Headquarters Central Command of the Indian Army to develop an advanced Remote Piloting Training Module (RPTM) and Software-in-the-Loop Simulator (SITL) as a system for drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).

This collaboration aims to enhance the Indian Army’s training capabilities by integrating advanced simulation technologies, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and minimizing risks.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of Central Command, along with IIT Kanpur faculty members Dr. G.M. Kamath, Head of the Department of Aerospace Engineering and Dr. Subrahmanyam Saderla, Associate Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering

Commenting on this development Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, stated, “This collaboration with the Indian Army showcases our expertise in aerospace engineering and simulation, enabling the development of next-generation training systems. With our strong research foundation and state-of-the-art infrastructure, IIT Kanpur is committed to becoming a leading hub for drone technology, driving India’s self-reliance in defence and aerospace innovation.”

Elaborating on the technical aspects, Dr. Subrahmanyam Saderla, Associate Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering, IITK explained, “The RPTM and SITL modules will simulate real-world conditions to train operators in flying and managing drones, reducing the need for costly real-time exercises while ensuring precision and safety. The simulator will replicate a range of operational scenarios, including reconnaissance, surveillance, and tactical strikes, providing operators with hands-on experience in a controlled virtual environment.”

Set for completion within six months, the project lays the groundwork for future collaborations between the Army and academia in defense technology development. The UAV Laboratory at IIT Kanpur, in collaboration with VU Dynamics Pvt. Ltd., will lead the initiative, with the development team comprising Prof. Saderla and his students Neetesh, Sagar, Kishore, Vamshi, and Abhishek.

About IIT Kanpur:

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, holds the distinction of being recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament. Renowned for its excellence in science and engineering education, IIT Kanpur has made significant contributions to research and development over the decades. Its expansive, lush green campus spans 1,050 acres and hosts a rich array of academic and research resources. The institute comprises 19 departments, 26 centers, three interdisciplinary programs, and two specialized schools across engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines. With over 590 full-time faculty members and more than 9,500 students, IIT Kanpur continues to be a leader in fostering innovation and academic rigor.

For more information, visit www.iitk.ac.in.