Kazakhstan is launching SHAIQAS 2026, the first national championship dedicated to unmanned systems, robotics, cyber technologies, and tactical training. The project aims to identify engineering teams capable of creating dual-use technologies and bringing them to industrial implementation, El.kz reports.
The championship is organized by the Ministry of Defense of Kazakhstan as part of the national acceleration program, the Defence Tech Center. The project is supported by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, as well as partner organizations operating in the field of robotics and unmanned systems.
A new platform for defense tech developers
SHAIQAS 2026 is set to be the country's first large-scale platform where engineers, developers, and military representatives can test their solutions in conditions that closely mimic real-world tasks.
Teams of 5 to 15 people are invited to participate. They may include students, teachers, industry specialists, engineers, and representatives of the Armed Forces.
The organizers expect to identify promising projects in the field of Defence Tech and help developers transition from prototypes to practical application.
For Kazakhstan, this field is becoming increasingly relevant against the backdrop of the rapid development of unmanned systems and digital technologies.
Drones, robots, and a cyber-range
The competition is divided into four tracks. One of the most spectacular will be the "Sky" block, dedicated to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Participants will have to assemble an FPV drone from a standardized kit, perform high-speed flights, and demonstrate cargo transportation skills. This format allows for an assessment of both the team's engineering preparation and their ability to operate equipment under time constraints.
The "Land" track focuses on ground-based robotic systems. Teams will perform tasks such as evacuating mannequins and laying mock mines using robotic platforms.
A separate block is dedicated to cybersecurity. Participants will face specific scenarios on a "cyber-range," where they must identify threats, protect systems, and solve practical digital security problems.
Tactical final will determine the strongest
The final stage will be a tactical competition. A team of five engineers will navigate an obstacle course that combines technical and applied elements.
Participants will be required to work with equipment, perform tactical medicine tasks, and fire at stationary targets using airsoft weapons. This format tests not only engineering competencies but also the ability to act under stressful conditions.
The national final will take place in August. The first day will feature the cyber stage and the round of 16 matches, while the winners will be determined on the second day following the quarterfinals, semifinals, and the deciding matches.
Selection process and prizes
Team registration began on June 1 and will continue till mid-month on the official website of the Defence Tech Center program.
After the application period closes, experts will conduct a selection process based on engineering documentation. The list of finalists will be published in July, after which they will undergo a mandatory stage of technical testing and condensed field trials.
The total prize fund for SHAIQAS 2026 is 10 million tenge. Additionally, special awards have been established for the best engineering solutions in aerial systems, ground robotics, and cybersecurity.
The organizers are also paying special attention to the scientific supervisors of the winning teams. Special prizes are provided for them as well, highlighting the role of educational institutions and mentors in developing the country's engineering school.
SHAIQAS 2026 demonstrates that Kazakhstan is betting on the development of its own dual-use technologies and the creation of a community of engineers capable of developing solutions for modern challenges in security and high technology.
