Arsalan Khan
Aerospace Systems Engineer | UAV & Flight Simulation Specialist | Embedded Systems & Control Systems Expert
Karachi
Summary
Aerospace systems engineer with over 7 years of experience in UAV development, flight simulation, embedded control systems, and automation. Skilled in flight dynamics modeling (JSBSim, DATCOM), AI-based tracking systems, embedded avionics, real-time automation and embedded payload integration using Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW and DJI Payload SDK. Proven track record in building simulation and training platforms, custom drone payload apps, and computer vision–driven training tools for high-stakes operational and research environments in government and industrial sectors.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
4
4
Certifications
2
2
Languages
Work History
Lead Aeronautical Systems Engineer
Woot Tech
08.2024 - Current
- Built high-fidelity flight dynamics models using JSBSim and DATCOM for real-time UAV simulations on Flight gear, X-Plane and stand alone results.
- Conducted CFD aerodynamic analysis using XFLR5, Ansys Fluent, and FEA on SolidWorks to optimize aircraft structures.
- Engineered automated flight controls, autopilot, and stability augmentation systems using MATLAB and Simulink.
- Created computer vision-based detection systems in Python using OpenCV for real-time target tracking
- Created a Python-based Weapon Simulator using OpenCV for dry-fire training, response tracking and performance detection and scoring
- Developed a DJI Payload SDK-based touchscreen application to operate custom payloads (e.g., surveillance, military, photography) on DJI Matrice 350 RTK via DJI Pilot 2
- Trained and deployed an AI model for drone-mounted night vision cameras to detect, classify, track and index vehicles in real time
- Integrated MATLAB with ArduPilot to receive real-time flight data and close the control loop through MATLAB-based flight stabilization
- Developed RTOS-based embedded applications for mission-critical avionics control systems
- Built intuitive GUI dashboards for Raspberry Pi platforms to manage onboard diagnostics and control
- Performed system testing, simulation, and tuning to ensure control system robustness and operational reliability
Technical Lead
SysTech Ltd
03.2023 - 08.2024
- Delivered BLE-based tracking systems for enterprise clients in healthcare and energy sectors
- Developed UAV platforms for industrial inspection and surveillance operations
- Integrated security monitoring and asset protection systems with embedded automation hardware
- Designed fixed-wing and multirotor drones, including ground control integration and flight logic programming
Project Manager
Force Instruments
02.2019 - 03.2023
- Managed the development of a six-degree-of-freedom motion platform for aerospace simulation
- Designed and delivered a full-featured flight simulator for a light trainer aircraft used in government aviation programs
- Developed and integrated hardware-software systems using LabVIEW, SolidWorks, and custom PCB designs
- Collaborated with national aviation stakeholders on simulation technology for training environments
Research / Lab Engineer
PAF-KIET (Avionics Department)
08.2018 - 01.2023
- Conducted research in flight dynamics and control systems for aircraft including C-130 and IL-78
- Modeled and simulated autopilot systems using MATLAB and FlightGear integration
- Led initiatives on ARINC 429 trainer, drone development, and photogrammetry applications
Education
MSc - Electronics
PAF-KIET
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan01-2023
BE - Avionics Engineering
PAF-KIET
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan01-2018
Intermediate - Engineering
Islamia Govt. Science College
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan01-2013
Matriculation - Computer Engineering
Nasra School
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan01-2011
Skills
- Flight Dynamics Modeling (JSBSim, DATCOM, FlightGear, X-Plane)
- UAV Systems & Drone Payload Integration (DJI PSDK, ArduPilot)
- AI & Computer Vision (OpenCV, YOLOv8, Deep Learning Inference)
- Real-Time Control Systems (MATLAB, Simulink, LabVIEW)
- Embedded Systems (Raspberry Pi, RTOS, Python, GPIO)
- UAV & Drone Automation
Hardware-software integration
RTOS development
Control systems
Accomplishments
- Supervised team of [Number] staff members.
Certification
- IOSH (UK) Health & Safety Certification – 2016
Timeline
Lead Aeronautical Systems Engineer
Woot Tech
08.2024 - Current
Technical Lead
SysTech Ltd
03.2023 - 08.2024
Project Manager
Force Instruments
02.2019 - 03.2023
Research / Lab Engineer
PAF-KIET (Avionics Department)
08.2018 - 01.2023
MSc - Electronics
PAF-KIET
BE - Avionics Engineering
PAF-KIET
Intermediate - Engineering
Islamia Govt. Science College
Matriculation - Computer Engineering
Nasra School
ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
- - Developed a DJI Payload SDK-based control app enabling direct payload interaction via DJI Pilot 2 interface.
- - Delivered a custom-built weapon simulator using OpenCV and Python for law enforcement and defense training.
- - Trained a deep learning model for vehicle classification and indexing from night-vision drone feeds.
- - Integrated MATLAB and ArduPilot to create a live feedback control loop for drone stabilization.
- - Deployed embedded GUI control panels for Raspberry Pi in real-time aerospace diagnostics applications.
- - Authored multiple real-time simulation environments using JSBSim and FlightGear.