Modern warfighters rely on unmanned aerial vehicles to sense, decide, and act faster than adversaries; this course equips cadets with the skills to model, simulate, build, code, and test custom drones. Laboratory exercises are used to experimentally determine vehicle dynamic parameters and to develop and validate robust digital models. Cadets will develop proficiency with software, sensing, and fabrication tools that are widely used in contemporary engineering practice. The first half of the course is lecture-based, emphasizing modeling and analysis, while the second half provides structured time for students to design, build, and test their drones. Cadets who successfully complete the course will produce a functional drone designed and constructed from individually sourced components. **This is a pilot course and must undergo review by the Curriculum Committee NLT AY28-1 to continue. Pending review of 3.5ET credit hours.**
