Technical Projects
We are currently pursuing 5 unique technical initiatives that address real-world national security and defense 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 Security & 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 NSDS.
RAPID RADIO DEVELOPMENT
In parallel with first responder Bob Jones and the Emergency Response Team in Jefferson County, Florida, we are developing a hexacopter to place self-sufficient Meshtastic radios on elevated locations like water towers for natural disaster response. The system will be ready for testing in Florida by the end of the 2026 spring semester.
VTOL AIRCRAFT
We are 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.
Pulsejet
The National Defense Societies' Pulsejet Vehicle Sub team is advancing the future of experimental flight through an exciting collaboration with PURPL, developing a cutting-edge vehicle powered by pulsejet propulsion. This project explores unique and historically significant engine technology, reimagined with modern engineering tools and design practices. By integrating PURPL’s pulsejet system into a purpose-built airframe, the team aims to demonstrate efficient, sustained flight while pushing the boundaries of student-led aerospace innovation. Through rigorous testing, iterative design, and hands-on fabrication, NDS is not only building a vehicle—but also cultivating the next generation of engineers ready to tackle unconventional challenges in flight.
Cybersecurity
The NSDS Cybersecurity Team is comprised of students who seek to improve their ability to work with cybersecurity by way of hands-on training and cooperative learning environments. Students actively engage in Capture the Flag competitions that allow them to hone their skills in network security, cryptography and analyzing system weaknesses. In addition to competing in Capture the Flag events, students from the team are currently engaged in a research and development program to develop an artificial intelligence-based agent which will be capable of identifying and reporting potential vulnerabilities in other artificial intelligence systems. This project's goal is to create awareness among developers regarding safe and secure utilization of new technology.
Sentry
Driven by a deep commitment to national security and the rapidly evolving need for counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), the Purdue NSDS Sentry Team is developing a low-cost, field-ready detection and elimination platform tailored to the needs of the modern warfighter. Our work focuses on rapid localization and neutralization of hostile drones, leveraging both computer vision and radar-based sensing, as well as a spectrum of elimination methods from small arms interception to emerging microwave technology. In parallel, the team is designing a national competition framework to accelerate innovation and showcase emerging C-UAS solutions from groups across the country.
Biotech
The Biotechnology Team is developing a wearable soldier biometrics monitoring system that continuously tracks key vitals including heart rate, blood oxygen levels, blood pressure, and GPS location. Designed for all-day wear in rugged environments, the device provides real-time health and location data to enhance soldier safety, situational awareness, and battlefield decision-making.
Technical Project Directors
Our project directors oversee project direction, coordinate technical development, and mentor members across all Technical initiatives. They ensure projects stay aligned with competition goals, partner requirements, and the mission of the Purdue National Security & Defense Society.
Jason Toberman - Chief Engineer
jtoberma@purdue.edu
Jake Fidacaro - Unmanned Systems Director
jfidacar@purdue.edu
Nelan Lala - Pulsjet Director
Andrew Gulbrandsen - Cybersecurity Director
Isaac Millar-Smith - Sentry Director
Addison Bowers - Biotech Director
