BRIN Tests The Nirawak Alap-alalap Aircraft To Optimize The Autopilot System

JAKARTA The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), through the Aviation Technology Research Center, has again tested a drone (PUNA) named Alap-allap. This trial was conducted on Wednesday, May 21.

Head of the BRIN Aviation and Space Research Organization, Robertus Heru Triharjanto, said that this was a follow-up test. The archipelago was tested in November last year to ensure its aircraft function in several parts.

The latest testing is no different from last November. The agency reportedly tested the manual take off system from within the Ground Control Station (GCS), autopilot roadpoint, and manual landing from outside CGS.

"We repeated the tests carried out last November. At that time, the Alap-alap autopilot system had not been working optimally due to technical problems with the waypoint function, namely following the programmed GPS points," explained Heru.

After testing again, Heru said that the Alap-alap managed to respond better. The engine control system shows an increase such as the ability to regulate speed and fly independently.

Although the results are quite satisfying, BRIN still needs to evaluate and develop the aircraft. There are several sensors that are not yet optimal and they still have to test the data streaming system through the camera for remote control.

Some sensors are still not optimal, and we will fix that. We are also starting to try the streaming data feature as a first step so that pilots can control the aircraft from the front of the computer screen, without having to look directly outside," explained Heru.

Heru believes that the development of Alap-lap can be a key technology for the development of a drone control system in the future in Indonesia. In accordance with BRIN's commitment, Heru will develop large-scale autopilot aircraft technology.