ACSL and USI Launch Certified SOTEN Drone Training Program

ACSL and the Unmanned Safety Institute have partnered to create a comprehensive training and certification program for the SOTEN drone system. The program, announced on Tuesday, will become available at the end of November or in early December 2026. It is a direct response to surging demand, with ACSL reporting a more than 400 percent increase in SOTEN drone orders in the first half of 2026 compared with the same period last year.

The initiative provides a standardized way to document operator proficiency. It aims to support ACSL's growing North American customer base by moving beyond hardware sales. The partnership will help pilots become comfortable with the entire SOTEN system.

USI has already added SOTEN drones to its training fleet to support the new curriculum. The program covers aircraft setup, normal flight operations, system knowledge, and emergency procedures. It also includes instruction on three SOTEN payload options and the TAITEN smart controller.

Curriculum details and delivery format

The SOTEN training curriculum covers aircraft operations, payloads, accessories, and ACSL's TAKEOFF flight software, from basic to advanced mission planning. Courses will be offered both online and in-person for selected training levels. The program includes multiple levels ranging from introductory overviews to in-depth modules.

Operators will receive instruction on the following SOTEN payload and accessory options:

More details, including enrollment information, will be provided via a dedicated landing page at launch.

Certification and industry credentials

Operators completing the courses will earn a dedicated USI certification for the ACSL SOTEN platform. USI describes itself as the only ASTM Approved Training Provider in the UAS industry. This credential is recognized as the standard for SOTEN operator proficiency.

The institute has a substantial track record. USI has trained more than 30,000 drone operators since 2014 and works with over 1,000 organizations. It employs more than 350 certified instructors and offers programs ranging from FAA Part 107 exam preparation to multi-level safety certifications.

Market momentum and demand

The driving force behind the program is remarkable market growth. Cynthia Huang, CEO of ACSL Inc., stated the company’s orders rose more than 400 percent in the first half of 2026. ACSL is Japan's largest drone manufacturer and offers the SOTEN drone as part of its North American product lineup.

Josh Olds, president and CEO of USI, highlighted the program's specificity. "SOTEN operators are taking on demanding missions, and they deserve training built specifically for the aircraft they fly," Olds said. The training focuses on the safe and effective use of the complete SOTEN system to ensure operator confidence.

A dedicated training webpage will launch with enrollment information and course details.