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AIRR and the World UAV Federation will jointly develop international cooperation in the drone industry

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18 August2026

The Association of Innovative Regions of Russia (AIRR) and the World UAV Federation (WUAVF) have signed a strategic cooperation agreement. The document was signed by AIRR Director Alexander Smekalin and WUAVF Authorized Representative Hung Ning Norman Ng on the sidelines of the International Forum “ROSTKI: Russia and China – Mutually Beneficial Cooperation.” Held for the fourth consecutive year in Kazan, the forum saw AIRR participate as a key partner for the first time.

The agreement aims to advance the innovative economy of Russian regions through the deployment of unmanned aerial system technologies, expansion of international cooperation, and entry of promising projects into new markets. Under the partnership, the parties intend to facilitate collaboration between enterprises in WUAVF member countries and the Russian Federation across trade and economic, scientific and technical, investment, and innovation domains.

Special emphasis will be placed on strengthening communications between AIRR member regions and international partners, as well as promoting Russian innovative solutions in foreign markets.

Earlier, during a joint strategic session with representatives of the World UAV Federation (WUAVF) at the ROSTKI forum, AIRR Director Alexander Smekalin noted that such interaction enables not only the sharing of mutual experience but also participation in shaping regulatory approaches for this emerging industry. “This is an opportunity not only to accelerate the formation of the low-altitude economy, but also to take part in creating international industry standards. At the same time, it is important to understand: new industries are not created for immediate economic return—first, it is necessary to develop mechanisms for regulation, control, insurance, and decision-making,” Smekalin commented.

For reference:
The World UAV Federation (WUAVF) is a global non-profit organization founded in 2017 in Shenzhen. It brings together professionals, startups, and industrial companies to advance UAV technologies. WUAVF’s headquarters are located in Hong Kong.

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