Russian Engineers Build Unique Testing Facilities for Electric Drones
Researchers at Moscow Aviation Institute have designed advanced test stands to push the limits of unmanned electric propulsion systems, a critical step for the country’s drone industry.
Engineers at the Moscow Aviation Institute’s Advanced Engineering School have completed a project to develop specialized test stands for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) electric motors. The system works as an integrated measurement and monitoring platform for drones weighing up to 120 kilograms.
The stands record sensor data in real time, collecting it through a central acquisition system. They precisely measure mechanical parameters such as rotation speed and thrust, as well as current and voltage across every component of the installation.
This setup allows engineers to test both individual components—like engines or regulators—and the entire propulsion system together with its propeller.
Industry customers have already evaluated the system, and modernization efforts are underway. Plans include integrating the stands with a wind tunnel to simulate real-world flight conditions. Previously, the institute developed similar stands for lighter UAVs weighing up to 90 kilograms.
The creation of domestic testing facilities of this caliber carries strategic importance for Russia’s unmanned aviation market. It represents a critical stage in the UAV development chain, directly influencing the quality, reliability, and safety of final products.
