Drones in agriculture: Analysis of different countries

Ural State University of Economics, Yekaterinburg, Russia

^* Corresponding author: antonnazarov2807@mail.ru

Abstract

This article provides an exhaustive, comparative study on the integration and utilization of drones in agricultural practices across various nations. The authors first illuminate the general applications of drones, highlighting their use in crop monitoring, health assessment, irrigation management, and precise pesticide application. The advantages of drone use, such as improved crop yields, reduced environmental impact, and economic efficiency, are discussed in detail. Subsequently, the authors embark on a country-wise analysis, examining the adoption rate and regulatory frameworks of drones in countries like the USA, China, Brazil, Australia, and several European and African nations. In the United States, for instance, drones are widely used and are supported by progressive regulations. China, in contrast, demonstrates a higher adoption rate but faces more significant regulatory challenges. The analysis also reveals how developing nations in Africa and South America, while presenting potential for agricultural drones, still grapple with infrastructural, economic, and knowledge barriers. The authors note that even though the use of drones is still relatively nascent, the technology has already made significant contributions to sustainable and efficient agricultural practices. They also contend that with further technological advancement and regulatory support, drones can revolutionize global agriculture. The article closes by advocating for policy changes that would encourage drone use in agriculture, particularly in developing countries. Moreover, it calls for research into affordable and easy-to-operate drone technology, suggesting that this could help overcome some of the adoption barriers faced by farmers in less economically advantaged regions.