Aerial contest held in Kamchatka featuring unmanned aerial vehicles
First Drone Racing Competition Held in Kamchatka Krai
In a groundbreaking event for the region, the Kamchatka Krai hosted its first large-scale open drone competition on June 9, 2025. The competition, organised by the Ministry of Digital Development of Kamchatka Krai, took place on the territory of the "Patriot" youth center.
Eighteen drone operators, aged between 14 and 48, participated in the event from Yelizovo, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, and Viluchinsky City District. The competition included two categories: amateurs and professionals, attracting participants with both practical flying experience and simulator skills.
The event was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marked the first time drone racing competitions took place outdoors in Kamchatka. Secondly, the "Patriot" Center, where the competition was held, is reportedly the largest open drone territory in Kamchatka, built last year in collaboration with the regional Ministry of Digital Development.
The "Patriot" Center is not just a venue for drone racing. It is a hub that teaches not only drone piloting but also assembly, technical maintenance, and application in civilian and patriotic purposes. Drone operation, according to Alexander Belikov, the Director of the "Patriot" Center, is a promising direction that prepares youth for the future.
The competition featured two disciplines: Obstacle Course and Drone Racing. Each athlete completed the course twice, and winners were determined by the best combined time. Mikhail Shevchuk (Center "Voyn"), Mikhail Pakhomov (Kamchatka Drone Racing Federation), and Artem Fedorov (Center "Voyn") were among the winners of the competition.
Sergei Voroshilov, Head of the Education Department of Yelizovsky Municipal District, spoke about the new platform, highlighting its potential to attract youth interest in technology, engineering, and aviation. The competition could plausibly foster skills in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and encourage regional community engagement.
Regular tournaments, including at the regional level, are planned to be held at the "Patriot" Center in the future. Without concrete data or reports, it is yet to be seen what specific effects the event will have on youth development in the region. However, given the global trends in drone racing, it is promising to see such an event taking place in Kamchatka Krai.
The inaugural drone racing competition in Kamchatka Krai took place at the "Patriot" Center, a venue that also offers drone assembly, technical maintenance, and civilian and patriotic application lessons, leveraging technology to engage youth in STEM and aviation. With additional competitions planned, this sport and the associated technology might foster regional skills development and community engagement.
