UAS Course in coordination with Engineer Research and Development Centre (ERDC), US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) - for senior officers

Date: (01-09-2025)
City: Sofia
Location: CMDR COE
Duration: 5 days
Classification: NATO UNCLASSIFIED
Depth of knowledge: Level 200

 

Aim. The course is esigned to empower participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical expertise in the deployment of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) for data-driven decision-making across operational, civilian, and emergency contexts.

This module aims to familiarize participants with the applicability, capabilities, and limitations of unmanned technologies.

The program will feature both theoretical sessions and live demonstrations, conducted by U.S. instructors who will provide unmanned aerial systems and specialized software for processing and analyzing collected data.

A highlight of the course will be a one-day demonstration showcasing the complete process of drone utilization in various scenarios. 

 

Course Director: 

COL Kostadin LAZAROV, +359 2 92 24757, kostadin.lazarov@cmdrcoe.org

Course OPR: 

LTC Milen MIRCHEV, +359 2 92 24759, milen.mirchev@cmdrcoe.org

 

Training Audience. NATO and NATO-nations structures and agencies and NATO members only.

 

Military officers (OF-2 and higher*) and/or civil equivalent assigned to NATO HQs and agencies, missions and operations; NATO Ally and Partner nations' Ministry of Defence and subordinated HQs; Ministry of Interior, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

 

Rank Level: OF-3 and higher*

 

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the capabilities, limitations, and components of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS);
2. Operate UAS effectively in diverse scenarios, including reconnaissance and emergency response;
3. Collect, process, and analyze data using specialized UAS software;
4. Apply UAS in real-world scenarios such as infrastructure monitoring and disaster management;
5. Ensure safety and regulatory compliance during UAS operations;
6. Develop leadership and teamwork skills for managing UAS missions;
7. Integrate UAS into operational strategies and broader technological frameworks

 

Language. 

The course will be conducted entirely in English. The command of English language must be at a professional level and in accordance with STANAG 6001 (3-2-3-2) or CEFRL (B2+/C1).

 

 

Application.

Online application is open until 24 AUG 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by 27 AUG 2025.

Course application is mandatory and the application form can be accessed through the CMDR COE’s official website. Visit the website at https://www.cmdrcoe.org/, go to Events; select Courses; find the BIA Course on the course list and click on Apply here.

In order to proceed with the application and to attend the course, applicants need to familiarise themselves with, and agree to the CMDR COE Privacy and Data Protection Policy.

 

Number of learners:

- face-to-face iteration: minimum 15, maximum 30.

 

Medical.

Participants are expected to have a valid insurance coverage for their stay in Bulgaria.

 

Course Fee. 

No course fee.

 

Successful applicants are responsible for arranging and covering their travel, accommodation and per diem. The CMDR COE could provide accommodation suggestions upon request. 

Dress code.

General (both military and civilian): Smart casual.

Optional (military): Uniform.

 

Course assessment and certification.  

Each learner must demonstrate an ability to perform in accordance with the course objectives. Learners will be assessed against both individual and collective formative and summative assessment criteria. There are two types of certificates depending on overall performance: Certificate for Successful Completion and Certificate for Participation. 

The summative assessment for CMDR COE courses is conducted at the end of the course. The minimum score to pass the exam is 80% correct answers.

 

 Useful links (copy and paste in a browser):

• Sofia Municipality: https://www.sofia.bg/en/web/sofia-municipality/
• Sofia Airport: https://www.sofiaairport.bg/en
• Railway transport: https://www.bdz.bg/en
• Sofia Urban Mobility Center: https://www.sofiatraffic.bg/en/common
• Sofia free tours - https://freesofiatour.com/