The drone and UAS industry is at an inflection point, with technological advancements, regulatory shifts, and evolving market demands setting the stage for transformative growth in 2025. While we can’t predict every twist and turn, certain trends are already making waves and shaping the industry’s trajectory.
Drawing from years of experience and close collaboration with clients, here’s my take on the key developments that will likely define the year ahead.
- Growth in AI and Autonomy These technologies will likely see wider adoption across the drone space in many ways. We are going to see greatly increased autonomy at all platform sizes, reducing operator workload, increasing safety and reducing cost for data collection in the commercial space. In the defense space I expect robots of all sorts will be making more and more decisions and taking action in ways to both increase lethality and safety of soliders and civilians.
- Advancements in 3D Modeling and Visualization As computing and data acquisition costs decrease, broader adoption of 3D modeling and visualization in sectors like construction, infrastructure management, mining, and environmental rehabilitation is quickly increasing. Demand for aerial data will continue to grow as these capabilities become more accessible and accepted. 2025 could see alot of growth in this area
- Growth in NDAA usage With the new U.S. Administration, I anticipate increased focus on systems that are NDAA compliant. This will drive new development and potentially open the door for new system sales, especially if government pressure or incentives increase, at least within the USA.
- Increased Regulatory Approvals Regulatory frameworks in several countries have matured, and I foresee significant progress in 2025. Expect to see approvals for advanced drone operations, including greater BVLOS, Part 108 should finally come out, larger airframes gaining access to the NAS, and increased autonomy being normalized. The new U.S. Administration’s focus on reducing governmental regulations could accelerate this trend.
- Precision Agriculture Breakout Precision Ag, which has been forecasted to break out since 2012, is poised for a significant leap forward this year. With increased investment and operational viability, especially in newer systems, both large and small, we may finally see this sector reach the long awaited forecasted potential. Take note of the crops spraying use cases.. a lot going on there!
- The Rise of Drone Swarms AI-driven collaborative drones, or behavioral-based mission planning systems, are making quiet progress. In 2025, we can expect to see small swarms of drones completing industrial missions with reduced human input and shorter flight times. The Defense space also will utilize this in a significant way. This is not coordinated drone light shows, these are systems that are completing missions and making decisions on how best to complete those missions with little to no human direction once the flights begin.
- Edge Computing Onboard computing may finally become a standard feature on many drone platforms in 2025. This will enable drones to process large volumes of data in real time for critical applications—an essential part of advancing autonomous capabilities.
- Defense Industry As defense strategies increasingly focus on robotics, the development of defense-specific drones will intensify in 2025. The new U.S. Administration’s efforts to streamline government budgets may prioritize unmanned robotic technologies.
- Counter-Drone Technology In both military and civil airspace, there will be an increased focus on drone surveillance and counter-drone technology. As defense and civil law enforcement agencies face different needs, we’ll see a surge in the development of specialized solutions to address both military and civil airspace concerns.
- Drones in Law Enforcement Drone as First Responder (DFR) technology has gained momentum in late 2024, and if public acceptance continues to grow, I expect more law enforcement agencies to integrate drones into their operations. However, careful design and deployment will be critical to ensure public trust—any missteps could lead to resistance and rejection of such technologies.
- Asia and the Middle East In 2025, Asia could emerge as a significant market, with countries like China and India rapidly expanding their drone capabilities and regulatory frameworks for platforms of varying sizes and purposes. Additionally, the UAE may take the lead in Urban Air Mobility (UAM), particularly with their well-funded government programs and close connection with regulators, they may move fast, allowing some of the struggling UAM platforms to find a market.
The drone and UAS industry is evolving rapidly, and 2025 is poised to be a landmark year for innovation and adoption. Staying informed about these trends will be critical for stakeholders looking to adapt and thrive in this fast-changing landscape.
Whether you’re in the commercial, defense, or regulatory sector, the opportunities are as significant as the challenges. What do you think? Are there other trends you foresee taking center stage in 2025?
I’d love to hear your thoughts – here is my Calendly link for a virtual coffee!