Aaromal Sujith’s Research Shines at the International Astronautical Congress

SYDNEY:
Malayali researcher Aaromal Sujith took center stage as a lead presenter at the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2025), marking a proud moment for India at one of the world’s most prestigious space gatherings. His paper, which bridges the worlds of space technology and cybersecurity, drew significant attention from global experts.

Aaromal presented his research during the fifth session of the congress, themed around Strategic Risk Management for Successful Space and Defense Programs.His paper, titled “Stratospheric Balloons in Modern Reconnaissance: A Comparative Analysis Balancing Innovation with National Security,” explored how near-space balloon systems are transforming the global landscape of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).

Working at the fragile boundary between Earth’s atmosphere and outer space, stratospheric balloons are redefining how modern nations gather intelligence- offering long-duration observation capabilities at a fraction of satellite costs. Yet, as Aaromal highlighted, these innovations also introduce new challenges linked to cybersecurity, airspace sovereignty, and international law.

What makes his research stand out is its fusion of cyber and space security. Drawing from his expertise in incident response, network defense, and cyber threat intelligence, Aaromal developed a risk management framework he calls the “ARROW Model.” The model is designed to identify, prevent, and legally counter ISR-based balloon threats. The name “ARROW” is a nod to his decade-long association with the Kerala State Archery Association, symbolizing precision and strategy.

His study spans a wide tactical range- from cyber disruption, jamming, and data interception defense to kinetic neutralization and interception. Beyond technology, Aaromal also examined the international legal grey zones surrounding high-altitude surveillance, an area still lacking clear global consensus.

Experts at IAC 2025 praised his work for its depth, analytical rigor, and visionary scope, calling it a benchmark in multidisciplinary research. They noted that Aaromal represents a new generation of global thinkers who connect cybersecurity, space science, and international law to shape the future of global security.

A native of Perumbavoor, Aaromal is the son of the late S. R. Sujith and former Perumbavoor municipal councillor Biji S. Sadashivan. A graduate of SCMS School of Engineering, he received an early career opportunity to work with INTERPOL in Lyon, France, during his student years. Later, he earned his Master of Science in Information Security with a specialization in Cyber Forensics and Incident Response from Carnegie Mellon University, ranked among the world’s top institutions by U.S. News & World Report.

Aaromal Sujith currently resides in Washington, D.C., continuing his research and professional journey at the intersection of technology, security, and innovation.