Seoul, South Korea – The International Symposium on Unmanned Defense, Energy and Future Technologies (ISUDEF’25) took place on July 11, 2025, at UWC Korea, attracting an impressive assembly of thought leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators from various parts of the world. This prestigious event provided a collaborative platform for experts to engage in meaningful discussions, share their insights, and explore innovative ideas aimed at advancing the frontiers of unmanned systems, enhancing sustainable defense practices, and leveraging AI-powered mobility solutions. The participants collectively aimed to influence the direction of research and policy in these crucial areas as they work towards a more efficient and secure future. The symposium proved to be a significant opportunity for networking and knowledge exchange among global experts dedicated to the development of these transformative technologies.

Leadership Opening: A Global Call to Collaboration

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Chairman Yang Jincai, President of the World UAV Federation (WUAVF), officially inaugurated the symposium, captivating a packed audience of international delegates with a compelling call for unity and a pressing commitment to enhance unmanned technologies in both civil and defense sectors.

Joining him was Chairman Dr. Shin Dong Choon of the Korea Society of Global Air and Space Industry, who called for stronger global research frameworks, education programs, and industrial alliances to support emerging aerospace systems and technologies.

In a keynote address, Prof. Dr. Hikmet Karakoç, President of SARES, reaffirmed the organization’s mission to embed sustainability at the heart of aerospace R&D. He advocated for cohesive frameworks that prioritize clean energy, ethical AI, and global collaborations to shape the progression of the unmanned sector. He introduced the comprehensive SARES system and its conferences held worldwide.

Co-Chair Dr. Kwon Hee Choon: AI Drones for the Future

As Symposium Co-Chair and Representative of the National Association of Cognitive Science Industries (Korea), Dr. Kwon Hee Choon Alex delivered a visionary session titled “AI Drones for the Future”.

Spotlight Sessions: Innovation in Action

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Dr. Preetwant Singh, VP of WUAVF Singapore Chapter and President of ISATECH/SARES, presented on “The Emergence of the "Low Level Altitude Economy", showcasing how autonomous navigation, IoT networks, and regulatory reform are reshaping logistics and mobility below traditional airspace. He articulates a clear pathway to achieving sustainability while empowering the next generation to collectively embrace and uphold this prosperity for the future.

Dr. Mahdi Sahlabadi, Dron Lab (Korea) and UKM (Malaysia), issued a critical warning on UAV cybersecurity vulnerabilities, illustrating how unmanned platforms can be weaponized through hacking if left unprotected.

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Asha Wadya Saelan, Founder of ASTTA and COO of BETA-UAS (Indonesia), delivered a powerful presentation on AI-Driven Maritime Surveillance, sharing how Indonesia is deploying smart UAVs to protect its vast maritime domain.

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A Unified Vision: Collaboration, Innovation, Sustainability

ISUDEF'25 wrapped up with a vibrant networking dinner and session, highlighting the power of global collaboration and cross-sector dialogue. This event effectively united the realms of defense, civil aviation, academia, and artificial intelligence, working together to forge a smarter, safer, and more interconnected future.

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