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Reflecting on the Swiss Aerospace Cluster Annual Meeting: A Forward Leap into Innovation

Reflecting on the Swiss Aerospace Cluster Annual Meeting: A Forward Leap into Innovation

This past week, I had the esteemed opportunity to participate in the annual Swiss Aerospace Cluster gathering. This event was a significant occasion to reflect on the accomplishments of 2023 and to set the ambitious blueprint for 2024.

During the meeting, I was honored to present our ongoing developments at VIRA DRONES. I also introduced an initiative poised to redefine the boundaries of aerial innovation: the establishment of a Below Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight center in Switzerland. This proposed center, potentially nestled in an uninhabited mountain gorge, promises a sanctuary for testing new technologies. Its unique location ensures that we can push the limits of innovation in harsh mountain conditions without disturbing local communities, making it a global asset accessible to companies worldwide and positioning Switzerland as one of the world leaders in drone innovation. We hope for support from Innosuisse and Innovaud in realizing this vision.

The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the enriching discussions I had with esteemed colleagues in the helicopters and drones sector. My dialogue with Cecile Vion-Lanctuit from Leonardo Aircraft was particularly noteworthy. We explored different perspectives on innovation from startups and large corporations, finding common ground to advance the future of the industry.

Furthermore, my exchange with Raphael Monstein from ZHAW School of Engineering was particularly illuminating. We delved deep into the possibilities of transitioning university innovations from the theoretical realm into tangible, market-ready solutions.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Roger Titshall-Dunn from Aurora Flight Sciences for the thought-provoking conversation that ensued. Our discussion shed light on various industry insights, contributing significantly to a productive exchange of ideas.

The Swiss Aerospace Cluster annual meeting has once again proven to be a melting pot of innovation, collaboration, and forward-thinking. I am filled with anticipation for the possibilities that lie ahead and am eager to contribute to the aerospace sector's journey towards a more innovative future.

Additionally, I would like to congratulate Massimo Fiorin on becoming a member of the Board of Directors of the cluster and wish him every success in this position.

Let us soar higher, together.

CEO of VIRA DRONES, Val Gorshkov
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