The Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) showcased its own developments at the HeliRussia-2025 International Helicopter Industry Exhibition, including the “Kontur” and “Skaut” Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), a universal Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAV, a flight controller with integrated calculator and neural processor, a ground control station for remote flight and functional systems control, and other innovative products.
The implementation of these projects at MAI is being handled by specialists from the “Aeromobility” Directorate. The presented aircraft are distinguished by their proven practical utility and effectiveness. All developments have undergone repeated testing phases, as emphasised by the MAI representative at HeliRussia-2025.
The flight controller, developed for UAVs of various types (fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and multi-rotor), provides automatic navigation, attitude stabilisation, and video data processing. Thanks to the use of computer vision and artificial intelligence, it is capable of object classification, obstacle detection, and autonomous route planning based on continuous processing of information received from on-board sensors. This allows it to be effectively used in monitoring, aerial photography, search and rescue operations, and ground situation control.
The VTOL UAV was developed at MAI as a universal solution for a wide range of tasks. The modular system, without significant design changes, allows it to be quickly adapted in size and characteristics for cargo transportation, monitoring, conducting search and rescue operations, and patrol duties. The drone can be equipped with a hybrid or electric engine. Entirely assembled from domestically produced components, it is capable of operating in harsh climatic conditions and performing flights in inaccessible terrain.
The electric motor, created in the “Hybrid and Electric Power Plants” laboratory of Institute No. 14, “Advanced Engineering School” of MAI, is characterised by high specific power, compact dimensions, and low weight. This ensures its competitiveness compared to similar Chinese motors. The 6 kW motor is intended for use in UAVs with a payload of up to 100 kg and is geared towards series production.
Key features of another MAI development, the electronic speed controller (ESC) for brushless motors, are its reliability and ability to operate in sensorless mode, which simplifies the system design and reduces its weight. Improved cooling with an increased radiator surface area ensures a lower operating temperature of the controller, increasing reliability and extending the operating temperature range. The device weighs 500 grams, and the supply voltage range is 35–55 volts, making the controller versatile for use on various types of UAVs.
The MAI Aviation Training Centre presents a training programme for pilot-instructors for UAVs with a take-off mass of over 30 kg. MAI is the first university in Russia to be authorised to carry out training under this programme.
HeliRussia-2025 takes place from 15th to 17th May at: Krasnogorsk, Moscow Region, Mezhdunarodnaya str., 16, Crocus Expo IEC, Pavilion 1. MAI exhibits are presented at stand 4d (Hall 4).
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