Trimble has initiated a collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology in Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) to endorse a novel UAV program offered by the Department of Aerospace Engineering. Within this partnership, Trimble will furnish the institution with direct georeferencing (DG) products tailored for UAV survey and mapping. This includes a comprehensive set of Applanix board sets and accompanying processing software. Additionally, Trimble will deliver training and support to instruct the UAV engineering team on the optimal integration and utilization of these products within their educational curriculum.

According to a recent report by PricewaterhouseCoopers, India is anticipated to emerge as the swiftest-expanding UAV market by 2025. The collaboration aims to assist the country in cultivating domestic proficiency in employing optimal UAV georeferencing practices. Simultaneously, it seeks to equip upcoming generations with the requisite knowledge and skills to engage with cutting-edge UAV technology.

The Government of India designated IIT Kanpur as an Institute of National Importance (INI) under the Institutes of Technology Act. Endowed with government funding, IIT Kanpur has established a specialized program for UAV education, aiming to advance UAV technology. The institution has also set up laboratories to facilitate student training and research. Notably, researchers at IIT Kanpur are acknowledged for pioneering the development of India's first solar-powered UAVs, known as MARAAL-1 and MARAAL-2.