CYCLONE MAKES HISTORY: USM TEAM SECURES SPOT IN FIGHTER UAV FINALS AT TEKNOFEST 2024

PENANG, 27 September 2024 – A team comprising students from Universiti Sains Malaysia, operating under the designation "Cyclone" recently has achieved a historical milestone by becoming the inaugural Malaysian team to qualify for the finals of the esteemed Fighter UAV competition at Teknofest 2024, held in Adana, Turkey.

Out of a total of 63 competing teams, they were able to secure a position within the top 34, which represents an impressive accomplishment on the global stage.

The principal objective of the Fighter UAV competition is to simulate air-to-air combat scenarios between unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in a controlled setting. This initiative presents a dual challenge to participants, both technical and inspirational. It aims to inspire and guide young individuals towards relevant fields of study and work, equipping them with valuable experience and honing their skills for future success.

The path to the finals was fraught with challenges for the Cyclone team and the team successfully completed three demanding stages over a period of eight months, ultimately attaining the status of finalist.

In the final evaluation, the team was assessed in two principal areas: the testing phase and the flight test. In the testing phase, the team was required to pass a series of critical assessments, including mechanical, communication, and radio frequency tests. The flight test comprised the execution of three principal missions: safe zone mode, UAV tracking and a kamikaze mission.

This noteworthy achievement would not have been attainable without the invaluable assistance of the sponsors and supporters, namely the School of Aerospace Engineering USM, BHEPA USM, Malvus Sense Sdn. Bhd., and the generous crowdfunders. The unwavering support provided has been instrumental in achieving this success.

It is also appropriate to acknowledge the dedicated members of Cyclone, namely Dr. Mohamad Haniff Junos (advisor), Muhammad Afif Bin Mazlin, Fauzan Syauqi Bin Mohd Afandi, and Ummi Athirah Binti Che Omar, for their unwavering commitment and assiduous efforts throughout the competition.

Text and Photo: Courtesy the School of Aerospace Engineering USM

Editing: Siti Faizah Abd Halim & Nurul Athirah Mohd Faizal (Industrial Training Student)