Drones are increasingly becoming a familiar sight in modern farming, as this emerging technology takes agri-tech to new heights—literally. These unmanned aircraft are not just for aerial photography; they are now capable of lifting payloads of up to 50kg, whether it be liquid fertiliser for spraying or seeds for sowing. This innovation is catching the attention of farmers, with companies providing drone services reporting a significant uptick in interest within the sector.
One of the key advantages of using drones in agriculture is the ability to avoid the drawbacks of traditional heavy machinery. Tractors and other ground-based equipment can lead to soil compaction, a problem that drones circumvent entirely by operating from the air. This method of farming not only reduces the physical impact on the soil but also offers a seasonal advantage. Steve Frost, director of Berkshire-based SAS Land Services, highlights this benefit: “We can get out there earlier in the season when the crops actually need fertiliser. If it is too wet to put a tractor out there, or a tractor would be too heavy and cause too much damage.”
SAS Land Services, which spent nine months obtaining approval to fly their agri-drones, has seen a substantial increase in the acreage they service. In 2024, the company provided drone services for about 800 acres of farmland. This year, that number has risen to 3,500 acres, indicating a growing trust and interest in this technology among farmers.
The environmental benefits of using drones are also noteworthy. Operating on electric batteries, these drones significantly reduce fuel consumption compared to traditional tractors. Although the batteries are currently charged using petrol generators, the overall fuel usage is considerably lower. “We’re using a lot less fuel per day compared to a tractor out there doing the same thing,” Frost explained. This reduction in fuel usage translates to fewer emissions and less soil disturbance, contributing to a more sustainable farming practice.
The technology behind these drones is equally impressive. Equipped with interchangeable payloads, they can sow seeds or spray liquid fertilisers with precision. The drones can be flown manually or programmed to follow a predetermined route, using mapping data that includes boundary points and obstacles. Onboard radar and cameras continuously scan the surroundings, while artificial intelligence calculates the most efficient way to cover the field. With a full cargo, the drone can fly for about five minutes before automatically returning for a battery change.
Looking ahead, the potential for drones in agriculture could expand even further if approval is granted for the use of pesticides. This would allow farmers to target specific areas of a crop that need attention, identified by smaller mapping drones equipped with multispectral cameras. These cameras can detect plant health issues that might not be visible to the naked eye, enabling more precise and effective treatment.
As the technology continues to evolve, drones are poised to become an integral part of modern farming, offering solutions that are not only efficient but also environmentally friendly. With companies like SAS Land Services leading the way, the future of agri-tech looks set to soar.