Bosnia develops first domestic drone to advance high-tech sector

The project is being led by the Sarajevo-based Centre for Advanced Technologies (CNT), a public institution working in close cooperation with local engineers, researchers, and scientific institutions. According to the Sarajevo Canton Press Service, the initiative aims to build a knowledge-based economy while retaining young professionals within the country.

Designed primarily for civilian applications such as search-and-rescue operations, the CNT-17FW01 features a 5.4-metre wingspan, a 16-kilowatt engine, and a payload capacity of up to 30 kilograms. It offers an estimated flight endurance of up to 12 hours. Current technical work centers on process standardisation, rigorous flight testing, and data collection to ensure operational reliability.

Addressing the progress, Sarajevo Canton Prime Minister Nihad Uk stated that support for technology requires structural measures to expand academic and research capacity. He highlighted the strategic "150+ Programme," an initiative by the Sarajevo Canton Government designed to employ top young graduates and encourage members of the scientific diaspora to return.

Ensar Mulaosmanovic, Director of the Centre for Advanced Technologies, emphasised the overall engineering complexity of the drone program and underscored the strategic significance of domestic technological development.