Technical Projects
We are currently pursuing 5 unique technical initiatives that address real-world national security concerns. These include Unmanned Systems, Cybersecurity, Counter-UAS, Biotech-defense, and a joint Pulsejet-Vehicle with PURPL. Many of these initiatives are separated further into specific hardware projects and competition teams. Our projects are only made possible because of our diverse and dedicated student engineers who all come together with the shared goal of furthering our nation's national security and defense capabilities.
Unmanned Systems
The unmanned systems team drives technology capability innovation for the Purdue National Defense Society. This year the team has a major focus on drone innovation for national security. The projects chosen give members opportunities to build expertise in unmanned aerial systems and experts in the UAS field.
Each project has a well-defined goal, inspired by competitions or partnerships that match the technological development goals of Purdue NDS.
RAPID RADIO DEVELOPMENT
In parallel with first responder Bob Jones and the Emergency Response Team in Jefferson County, Florida, Purdue NDS is developing a hexacopter to place self-sufficient Meshtastic radios (with solar power and batteries) on elevated locations like water towers for disaster response. The system will be ready for testing in Florida by the end of the 2026 spring semester.
VTOL AIRCRAFT
Purdue NDS is using a vertical take-off and landing drone platform for mapping and autonomous delivery, leveraging onboard AI for navigation and identification. This project targets the California Unmanned Aerial Systems Competition in June 2026.
SMALL FPV AIRCRAFT
Members learn drone setup and maintenance using small FPV drones, including tools like Ardupilot and Mission Planner. These drones are used for pilot training and, in partnership with Purdue’s Drone Club, competed in DCOMP25 in FPV racing and tactical exercises and is preparing for DCOMP26 in the spring semester.
Meet The Executive Board
We equip students with the skills, experience, and connections needed to succeed in national security and defense careers. Our members have gone on to earn competitive internships, secure roles in government and industry, and contribute to real-world defense initiatives.
CIAN MANSFIELD
President
mansficj@purdue.edu
AARAV ZUTSHI
Vice President
zutshi0@purdue.edu
ROBERT WALLS
Treasurer
rdwalls@purdue.edu
JAYE DATAN
Administrative Director
jdatan@purdue.edu
ADRIANA MOLINAR
Events Director
molinar2@purdue.edu
ILYA KACHURO
Chief Engineer
ikachuro@purdue.edu
NICK CTORIDES
Social Relations
nctoride@purdue.edu
MELANIE WARREN
Industrial Relations
warre136@purdue.edu
BEN SCHMITT
Industrial Relations
schmit95@purdue.edu
AMANDA WOLF
Creative Director
wolf151@purdue.edu
Project Leads
Our project leads oversee project direction, coordinate technical development, and mentor members across all Unmanned Systems initiatives. They ensure projects stay aligned with competition goals, partner requirements, and the mission of the Purdue National Defense Society.
Jason Toberman
jtoberma@purdue.edu
Jake Fidacaro
jfidacar@purdue.edu
