Indonesia Pioneers Safe Skies With Record-Breaking Multi-Drone Utm Demonstration

Indonesia recently showcased its first-ever multi-drone operation managed through an Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) platform, marking a significant step towards safe and efficient drone operations in the region. The event, held in South Jakarta on January 22-23, 2025, was a collaborative effort between Terra Drone Corporation and Unifly NV, two leading companies in drone and UTM technology.

The initiative, supported by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI), aimed to validate the use of UTM technology for scalable drone operations. With over 120 stakeholders, including national aviation authorities, government officials, and representatives from ASEAN countries, the Middle East, and beyond, the event demonstrated the vast potential of drones in Southeast Asia.

As Indonesia continues to emerge as a key market for drone applications, the country’s vast agricultural land, significant oil and gas production, and inter-island logistics needs make it an ideal test bed for advanced aerial management systems. A robust UTM platform is crucial for unlocking drones’ potential in diverse sectors, including agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure inspection.

“I’m thrilled to see Indonesia’s commitment to innovation and progress in drone technology,” said Andres Van Swalm, CEO of Unifly. “At Unifly, we’re proud to support the country in building a safe, efficient, and scalable drone ecosystem that will unlock immense potential for both local communities and the broader economy.”

Terra Drone Indonesia played a pivotal role in this initiative, leveraging its global network to deliver advanced solutions. The company partners with Unifly for UTM capabilities and Aloft Technologies, a FAA-approved UAS service provider, to provide cutting-edge solutions.

The demonstration showcased real-time management of multiple drones using UTM technology under various scenarios, including precision spraying for large-scale palm plantations, drone delivery solutions for remote and inter-island areas, and infrastructure inspection and emergency response. Key technologies included drones equipped with Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) and Remote ID systems, enabling precise and coordinated operations.

The initiative aims to pave the way for widespread drone adoption in cities like Jakarta and Nusantara, Indonesia’s new capital, aligning with Indonesia’s economic ambitions and strengthening its ties with other Global South nations. The historic event highlights the transformative potential of drones in fostering innovation and economic development across Southeast Asia.

With Terra Drone Corporation and Unifly NV leading the charge, Indonesia is poised to take flight as a leader in drone operations, unlocking a new era of growth and prosperity for the region.