R&D company unveils first Omani-made drone

MUSCAT: An Omani research and development company, Star Drones, has announced the launch of the nation’s first locally-made drone, named "TARIQ" during the COMEX 2024. This innovation is not only a testament to Omani engineering prowess but also a significant step towards achieving the goals outlined in Oman’s Vision 2040.

Saeed Abdul Ghafoor, CEO of Star Drones, shared his excitement in an interview with Oman Observer. "Star Drones, at its core, is an R&D company. We do lots of scientific research and development. And the outer shell of that is the AI, or artificial intelligence," he stated.

"Today, we are presenting the first Omani drone that's been made in Oman by Omani hands, designed in Oman, using Omani materials." The pride in local craftsmanship and resources was evident as he highlighted the use of Omani algae to create the mold for the drone's outer shell, in collaboration with Plamore, an innovative startup focused on producing 3D printing filaments from algae.

The "TARIQ" drone stands out as a modular system that promises to revolutionise various industries with its versatility. From agriculture to industrial inspections, the potential applications are vast. The modular design allows for easy customisation and upgrades, significantly reducing electronic waste by enabling the replacement of individual components rather than the entire drone.

This sustainable approach is aligned with Oman’s Vision 2040, which emphasises economic diversification and job creation. Abdul Ghafoor emphasised the role of strategic partnerships with local entities such as Sohar University and Intaj Sohar in enhancing the nation’s industrial capabilities and fostering innovation. "The whole thing has been designed in Oman. It's been designed by Omani engineers, by Omani minds. And it's been programmed in Oman. And we have an amazing AI team that kind of develops these kinds of technologies," he noted.

Star Drones has also secured pre-approval for manufacturing from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and will rigorously test the drone to ensure it meets ISO standards in cooperation with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion. This meticulous approach underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining high standards of innovation and quality.

“The market potential for drones is robust, with strong demand in the Middle East in sectors like agriculture, logistics, and surveillance,” Abdul Ghafoor said, outlining the financial projections which indicate expected profitability within three years. This optimistic forecast is supported by competitive pricing and scalable production processes.

Star Drones has ambitious plans to build a drone factory in Oman, focusing on the production of commercial drones. This initiative aims to bolster the local economy and solidify Oman’s position as a hub for advanced drone technology.

"Strategic partnerships and ongoing research collaborations will facilitate this expansion, ensuring that the drone meets diverse market needs while maintaining high standards of innovation and quality," Abdul Ghafoor added.

The "TARIQ" project is a clear embodiment of Oman’s Vision 2040, driving economic diversification and creating high-tech job opportunities. By leveraging local resources and talent, Star Drones is not only pioneering in drone technology but also contributing to the national agenda of economic growth and sustainability.