Russian Researchers Develop Multi-Task Agricultural Drone
A new unmanned system is expected to spray agrochemicals, monitor crop conditions, and detect diseases and pests.
Researchers at North Caucasus Federal University in Russia’s Stavropol region have begun developing new drone models, including one designed to deliver cargo and another intended for applying fertilizers on agricultural land.
According to the university’s press service, specialists at the university’s Engineering Development Center are designing drones capable of transporting cargo while also being used to apply fertilizers and monitor soil and crop conditions.
Developers say the multifunctional agricultural drone will be able to spray agrochemicals at low altitude with even distribution, monitor and analyze soil conditions, moisture levels, and crop germination, and detect the presence of diseases and pests.
More Than a Trend, a Practical Tool
According to Russia’s Ministry of Agriculture, the country’s agricultural sector currently uses about 24,000 pieces of farming equipment with autopilot features and roughly 700 agricultural drones. Autonomous technologies help reduce crop losses, lower machinery wear, and save fuel.
A digital platform with artificial intelligence for monitoring crops using agricultural drones is currently under development. The system is expected to help farmers quickly assess field conditions and detect plant diseases and pests at early stages.
