Quadcopter and fixed-wing drones

Drones (UAVs) are increasingly being used in agriculture, as they enable the rapid collection of accurate data on the condition of fields, optimise resource use and boost crop yields. The main areas in which they can be applied are:

1. Crop monitoring

Drones can carry out regular flights over fields and collect data using cameras and sensors. This allows for: determining the condition of plants, detecting diseases, pests or plant stress, assessing soil moisture levels, and analysing uneven crop growth.

The images obtained can be processed using specialised software to create NDVI maps, which indicate plant health.

2. Field mapping and analysis

UAVs can create high-precision field maps, which are used for: crop planning, terrain assessment, identifying areas with varying soil productivity, and planning irrigation and drainage systems.

3. Irrigation monitoring

Drones equipped with thermal cameras can identify areas with water shortages or surpluses, helping to optimise the irrigation system.

4. Yield estimation

Using aerial photography, farmers can forecast yields even before harvest, which helps with: planning logistics, concluding sales contracts, and optimising the use of machinery.

5. Livestock monitoring

In livestock farming, drones are used to: search for lost animals, monitor the condition of pastures, and survey large areas.

6. Environmental monitoring

Drones can assist with: monitoring soil conditions, detecting erosion, and monitoring forest belts and natural ecosystems.

Benefits of using drones in the agricultural sector:

• reducing resource costs (fertilisers, water, pesticides);

• increasing crop yields;

• rapid data collection over large areas;

• more environmentally friendly farming practices.