SETU, in collaboration with the University of Radom, Poland, and the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Ireland, hosted a conference focused on the opportunities for the UAV industries in Europe.
The event also marked the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SETU and the University of Radom, Poland. The agreement strengthens collaboration in research, academic exchange, and the development of joint international projects.
The event brought together international academics, researchers, policymakers, industry representatives, and students to explore the rapidly evolving role of unmanned aerial systems across the continent. Drone technologies are now being used across a wide range of sectors, including emergency response, agriculture, logistics, environmental monitoring, infrastructure inspection, and coastal surveillance, reflecting their growing importance in addressing real-world operational and societal needs.
A key focus of the day was Ireland-Poland collaboration in aerospace innovation, research, and regulation. Participants looked at how shared expertise and more closely aligned policy approaches could support the safe and effective integration of UAV systems into European airspace.
Across the programme, expert presentations and panel discussions examined recent developments in drone operations and the increasingly important role of artificial intelligence in enabling more autonomous systems and enhancing communication between UAV and ground-based platforms.
SETU students showcased their “Pioneer UAV” project, demonstrating the University’s strong emphasis on applied learning and innovation in engineering and aerospace disciplines.
Regulatory frameworks, certification pathways, and the development of U-space systems were also explored as part of wider discussions on how to support safe and scalable drone operations. Insights from the Irish Aviation Authority provided important context on current policy and evolving operational standards.
“The conference provided a valuable platform for exchanging expertise on the rapid development of UAV technologies and their growing role across economic, logistics, scientific research, and societal applications.”
Professor Slawomir Bukowski University of Radom, Poland.
The event created space for networking and knowledge exchange between academic, industry, and policy stakeholders, helping to strengthen emerging research links and future collaboration between Ireland and Poland.
“The conference highlighted the importance of continued dialogue between academia, industry, and policymakers to ensure UAV technologies are developed in a safe, resilient, and socially responsible way. As integrated autonomous systems emerge as increasingly important technologies supporting civil protection, critical infrastructure monitoring, and emergency response, collaboration across Europe will be key to building future resilience.”
Dr Ashish Vashishtha Lecturer at Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, SETU
The conference concluded with closing remarks, reinforcing SETU’s ongoing role in supporting research-led innovation and international partnership in the fast-developing field of UAV and drone technologies.
