The Smart Marty Sky Dispatch
Robots, drones and renewable energy: The highlights of InnoWeek 2026
From remotely operated firefighting equipment to agricultural drones and student-built electric vehicles, innovators in Uzbekistan are developing practical solutions while exploring opportunities for commercial production and international markets.
A remotely controlled firefighting robot showcased at InnoWeek 2026 in Tashkent is designed to approach flames from a distance of 500 to 800 metres and direct a water cannon while crews stay away from danger. The prototype, developed in Uzbekistan, features tracks built to withstand temperatures up to 500°C (with a metal-track version aiming for 1,000°C) and is pursuing artificial intelligence integration for automated water-cannon control. The project is in the prototype stage with a patent application filed and collaboration with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations noted.
Uzbekistan’s Sahro Drone Industry presented unmanned aerial vehicles intended for agriculture and emergency response, alongside its military drone production. A multipurpose drone at InnoWeek can carry up to 50 kilograms, with its platform and tank adaptable for agricultural spraying or firefighting operations. The company indicates a strong tilt toward civilian applications, while continuing to supply military drones with a high degree of local component localisation.
In the university sector, Kimyo International University researchers proposed a tree-shaped installation combining solar panels and wind turbines to power outdoor lighting and security cameras, with battery storage for energy continuity. The system is projected to cost about $2,000 to manufacture, and potential selling prices are estimated between $2,200 and $2,500. The university positions itself as the first customer, funding selected student projects and integrating finished units on campus.
Turin Polytechnic University in Tashkent presented a 250-kilogram electric vehicle aimed at energy-efficiency competitions, developed by the Cosmos Innovation team. The vehicle reportedly consumes 0.6 kilowatt-hours per 10 kilometres, with ambitions to enter the 2027 Shell Eco-marathon in the United States. The project highlights the drive toward practical demonstrations of efficient student-developed technology.
Industry leaders and researchers at InnoWeek 2026 emphasized the need to bridge research and practical application. Experts highlighted efforts to connect scientific work with commercial viability, including partnerships and new funding mechanisms under Uzbekistan’s Agency for Innovative Development to support spin-offs and shared research costs. The event drew participation from about 20 spin-off companies.
Overall, the event underscored a focus on robotics, drone technology for civilian and emergency use, and renewable-energy demonstrations by students and startups, with a view toward exporting and broader domestic industry collaboration.