Gunungkidul, September 16, 2024 - Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) once again showed its commitment in advancing drone technology by hosting the 2024 Indonesian Flying Robot Contest (KRTI). Held at the Gading Airfield, this event is the result of collaboration between the Indonesian Talent Development Center (BPTI), the National Achievement Center, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, UNY, and the Adisutjipto Air Force. The goal is not just a competition, but also an important event to encourage the development of unmanned aircraft technology that has the potential for Indonesia's future.
In his interview, Lieutenant Colonel Pnb Iwan Setiawan, S.A.P., Head of the Aerospace Potential Service (Kadispotdirga) of Adisutjipto Air Base, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government, universities and military institutions. “This collaboration is very strategic, especially in utilizing drone technology for various purposes. By synergizing with the Indonesian Aero Sport Federation (FASI) and the government, the development of drone technology and regulations can be accelerated. Moreover, Yogyakarta has dense civil and military aviation challenges, so close cooperation is needed to manage the resilience of our airspace,” he explained.
Lieutenant Colonel Iwan also expressed his appreciation for this collaboration, adding, “We are very proud to collaborate with UNY in organizing KRTI. This event not only accelerates the development of drone technology, but also opens up opportunities for its application in strategic sectors, including military and regional mapping.”
Major Nav Prasetyo Sudi W, Head of Operations and Training Section (Kasiopslat) of Adisutjipto Airbase, also highlighted the importance of aviation regulations in the use of drones. He emphasized, “Drone technology has great potential, both in the military sector and natural resource monitoring. However, without clear rules, the existence of drones can interfere with civil and military aviation. Through KRTI, students and the public can learn about flight regulations and the safe use of drones, so that the potential for aerial conflict can be minimized.”
Major Prasetyo also explained that drone technology is very helpful in mapping areas, especially in emergency situations such as disasters. “With this technological capability, we can do mapping quickly and accurately without dependence on foreign parties, which often happens when we buy aircraft from abroad. With drones, we can be more independent,” he added.
Meanwhile, Major Pnb Kadeck Dwi I, Kasi Tahwildirgq Lanud Adisutjipto, hopes that cooperation with universities and students will continue. “We hope that students are not only proficient in operating drones, but also understand the applicable regulations. Their participation in KRTI can open up opportunities to get flight certification, which will allow them to contribute to the development of air technology regulations in Indonesia,” he explained.
KRTI 2024 was attended by student teams from various universities in Indonesia, who competed in various categories such as unmanned aircraft, monitoring drones, and flight automation systems. More than just a competition, this event is expected to become a foundation for the development of more advanced drone technology, strengthen domestic technological independence, and create regulations that support the development of unmanned aircraft in Indonesia.
With the strategic collaboration between UNY and the Indonesian Air Force, this event not only spurs technological innovation, but also strengthens the nation's ability to utilize drone technology for national interests, both in the fields of defense, mapping, and resource management. KRTI 2024 is a clear proof of UNY's commitment in preparing young generations who are ready to face future technological challenges.
